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Darwin drops speeds to 40km/h in its CBD

Bike riders in Darwin will benefit from safer streets when the council extends reduced speed limits to 40km/h across much of its CBD.

The concept was introduced earlier this year when the City of Darwin invited community feedback on its proposal to introduce lower speed limits in the city centre.

Selected streets are subject to a 40km/h limit, but the council's proposal involves extending the limit to most CBD streets to make them more compatible with sustainable modes of transport such as walking and bike riding.

This move is inspired by the social, economic, and environmental benefits of low-speed city centres elsewhere in Australia and around the world. The plan also includes a vision of more bike paths, outdoor dining areas and people-friendly spaces.

It also brings Darwin's CBD closer to the gold standard of speeds for local streets – the 30 km/h recomnended by the OECD as a measure to improve public health and safety.

The City of Darwin conducted an online survey in April and says the results now reveal "the majority were supportive of extending the current 40km/h areas".

The changes are set to take effect on 1 November 2023 and will include most CBD streets other than Daly and McMinn Streets, The Esplanade and Garamilla Boulevard.

The council will provide further information on the changes closer to implementation.

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