Just when you thought the city's traffic woes couldn't get any worse, a call has gone out for help to relieve afternoon traffic congestion, speeding motorists and possible accidents around western suburbs schools.
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A post on a local Facebook community page by Aberglasslyn resident Lindy Moase, asked if council could install a roundabout at the intersection of Avery Street and Alexandra Avenue to assist the flow of traffic, particularly during peak school times.
Her post sparked a flurry of comment from residents - some supporting her, others saying a roundabout was not the answer - and from West Ward Councillor Henry Meskauskas who said said the problem was far wider spread.
He said similar congestion is found on the New England Highway and streets surrounding schools at Lochinvar and Telarah.
"Visit other suburbs around the same time and you'll most likely experience the same problems," Cr Meskauskas said.
"I don't know what the answer is but I have raised the issue with council's traffic committee, which includes police representatives."
In her post Ms Moase said: "Just wondering how could we go about asking for a roundabout to be put in on Alexandra Avenue at the end of Avery Street? It would be so much better for traffic flow. It gets so bad at school times."
Some commented on her post saying they were concerned about speeding motorists on Alexandra Avenue and children getting hurt.
Cr Meskauskas said he would also raise the matter with the Roads and Maritime Services.
"I think the roundabout suggestion is a good idea for Rutherford schools precinct but something has to also be done near St Paul's Primary and Telarah Public schools.There are also problems in Dunkley and Weblands streets, particularly of an afternoon," he said.
"Most streets that schools are in are quite narrow which makes the situation worse. Side streets surround schools are also affected. I really don't know if it will be lights or a roundabout to solve the problems.
"Things are only going to get worse in on the highway at Lochinvar with thousands of homes about to be built in new estates there."
Australian Community Media reported last year how St Philip's Christian College, Cessnock appointed a traffic consultant to address similar issues it had with its Wine Country Drive site.
It worked with Cessnock City Council and the Roads and Maritime Services to investigate immediate measures that could improve pedestrian and vehicular safety around the school.
