Main Roads reduces speed limit on Indian Ocean Drive in Leeman after locals advocate for more than three years

Main Roads has dropped the limit by 10km/h on a section of Indian Ocean Drive after community calls to reduce speed through the Mid West town of Leeman. On Wednesday, August 28, Main Roads reduced the speed limit from 80km/h to 70km/h on Indian Ocean Drive between Illyarrie and Britt streets in Leeman. In November last year, Opposition Leader Shane Love launched a petition calling for the speed limit to be reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h to allow caravans and other vehicles to turn into the township. “Until slip lanes are installed, there is a dire need to reduce the speed in the Leeman town site,” he said. Leeman community advocate Randall Freshwater said it was great news after fighting for change for more than three years. He said the speed limit reduction was a compromise, as locals would have preferred the installation of slip lanes. “We have to slow down to about 20km/h to turn into the town, and the people travelling 80km/h behind us get frustrated and overtake on the white lines,” he said. “It’s safer for us to slide onto the left. This is the next best thing aside from slip lanes, it’s a great outcome.” Sandra Carr MLC said it was time for road users to slow down as they pass through Leeman and consider stopping in for a look around. “Be sure to obey the signs, slow down, stay safe and enjoy the drive as you travel on our WA roads,” she said. “And if you’re on Indian Ocean Drive passing by Leeman, why not stop and stay a while? Great homemade goodies are on offer at the service station and local cafe, along with some of the most gorgeous coast and sunsets you’ll ever see.” The changes were implemented following a review of speed limits in the Mid West-Gascoyne and Main Roads’ commitment to road safety.