Decision details

2026/491827

Recommendation

It is recommended that the Forum review the following installation of the following traffic treatments and reallocation of parking restrictions in Woolloomooloo:

(A)  Raised pedestrian crossing on Crown Street, north of Kennedy Street, re placing the existing raised threshold;

(B)  Continuous footpath treatments (CFTs) across Suttor, Robinson, Kennedy and Broughton Streets where they intersect Crown Street;

(C)    Conversion of the existing kerbside bus stop to an in lane bus stop on Crown Street between Suttor and Kennedy Streets;

(D)    Installation of a median separator on Crown Street between Suttor and Kennedy Streets;

(E)     Introduce "No Right Turn" restrictions for vehicles entering and exiting Robinson Street;

(F)     Introduce "No Right Turn" restrictions for vehicles entering and exiting Kennedy Street;

(G)    Relocation of the "Bus Zone" on the eastern side of Crown Street, north of Robinson Street to approximately 33.5 metres north of its existing location; and

(H)    Streetscape upgrades including wider footpaths, new garden beds, additional street trees and improved lighting

Advice

The Forum noted that this item will be deferred pending an investigation into the feasibility of an in-lane bus stop for southbound buses on Crown Street. The option progressed by the City will need to ensure that all pedestrian safety concerns, particularly those relating to sight lines and visibility, are adequately addressed. The outcome of the investigation will be reported back to the Forum by the December meeting.

The Forum also noted the feedback raised by the Member for Sydney and local residents, including:

·         Most residents are in support for the proposed streetscape and beautification works.

·         Objection to the proposed relocation of the bus stop for the following reasons:

o    The proposed location would place the bus stop directly in front of low-rise residential apartments.

o    Potential impacts on residents due to increased noise and reduced air quality, with buses stopping immediately adjacent to residential balconies.

o    Safety and accessibility concerns, as waiting passengers may obstruct access to and from the building entrances.

o    The loss of five on-street parking spaces located in front of the apartments.

o    A request to investigate retaining the bus stop in its current location or relocating it to a position that does not front residential apartments

City staff presented the proposal and advised that the project seeks to improve pedestrian safety, accessibility and streetscape amenity on Crown Street between Suttor Street and Broughton Street. The presentation outlined the proposed raised pedestrian crossing, continuous footpath treatments, bus stop changes, wider footpaths, landscaping and improved lighting. The City also summarised the crash history, community feedback received during consultation, the rationale for the proposed crossing location and turn restrictions, and advised that an alternative southbound in-lane bus stop option may be feasible subject to further investigation.

Background

In response to community concerns about pedestrian safety and accessibility in the area and as part of our commitment to create safer streets for pedestrians, we are proposing the following upgrades:

·                Raised pedestrian crossing on Crown Street, north of Kennedy Street, replacing the existing raised threshold;

·                Continuous footpath treatments (CFTs) across Suttor, Robinson, Kennedy and Broughton Streets to improve pedestrian priority and visibility;

·                In‑lane bus stop for northbound services on Crown Street between Suttor and Kennedy Streets, supporting safer pedestrian movement and calmer traffic, and;

·                Streetscape upgrades including wider footpaths, new garden beds, additional street trees and improved lighting to create a more attractive and comfortable environment.