By REBECCA BILLS
IN a Victorian first, a Lilydale crossing is the first to be fitted with a new road safety camera to enforce speed and red light rules.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Kim Well and Member for Evelyn Christine Fyffe made the announcement last week at the Maroondah Highway crossing.
“This is a busy pedestrian crossing that connects the main shopping strip to the Lilydale train station, with Lilydale High School nearby as well,” Mr Wells said.
“You’ve got the railway station, you have the school and there are the shops along the road – kids need to be able to cross this road safely.
“Let’s hope this new addition changes drivers’ behaviours.”
Mr Wells highlighted that the current road toll is sitting at 42 -this is four up from last year’s 38.
“It is important that we do absolutely everything to ensure safer roads,” he said.
“This new road safety camera will detect speeding drivers and enforce red light rules, which will improve safety for children, students, the elderly and the wider Lilydale community who regularly use this crossing.
“Anyone who chooses to run the red light or speed at this crossing is putting people’s lives in danger and will receive a fine and a penalty.”
Mr Wells said the matter had been brought to the attention of the independent Fixed Camera Site Selection Committee by Member for Evelyn, Christine Fyffe.
Mrs Fyffe said the camera addressed concerns raised by local retailers who had seen cars drive through the red light and risk serious injury.
Mrs Fyffe thanked Lilydale police and said they had spent many hours trying to educate drivers in a softer way by being visible at the intersection, however drivers did not take heed.
“Lilydale High School has 2100 students, so when you look at that 45 minutes when they are using the crossing there are so many young people coming here catching the buses and the trains,” she said.
“This new camera will send a strong message to motorists – take your time, it’s cheaper than a fine.”
Lilydale High School principal Leon Bishop said the new camera had reassured him that his students were much safer using the crossing now.
“It’s fantastic, we are very happy it’s here” he said.
The road safety cameras will be switched on after a comprehensive testing regime under live traffic conditions.
Enforcements will not take place until Victoria Police and the Department of Justice are satisfied the cameras are operating correctly.
