A nature reserve next to the luxury Bathers apartment complex at North Cronulla would be converted into car parking under a traffic improvement plan.
The existing car park adjoining the surf club would be be extended to make up for the loss of 20 spaces along the edge of Dunningham Park to allow for an extra right turn lane from Elouera Road into Kingsway.
A Sutherland Shire Council report says, “Whilst the loss of any parking is regrettable, it is considered justifiable in order to address the existing and future traffic flow problems at the intersection”.
Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) prepared the plans and is prepared to fully fund the works, which are scheduled for winter next year.
The council supports the proposal subject to public consultation.
A report by council’s Infrastructure Committee said the recently competed Cronulla Traffic Study identified the intersection of Kingsway, Elouera Road and Gerrale Street as an emerging pinch point location.
Efficiency gains of between 15 to 20 per cent could be achieved at the traffic signals through the provision of a dual right turn bay for vehicles turning from Elouera Road into Kingsway, the report said.
”The preferred option would also include provision of an on road cycle lane in the Elouera Road approach,” it said.
“This is in keeping with Council's bicycle network plan and the aim of providing alternative transport options that assist in reducing traffic congestion.
“The inclusion of both features requires widening of the road carriageway and relocation of approximately 20 to 25 of the existing angle parking spaces adjacent Dunningham Park.
“Subject to further design investigation it is considered feasible for 15 to 20 of these spaces to be offset through the further extension of the car park adjacent North Cronulla Surf Club into the existing reserve at 37-43 Prince Street.
As part of the improvements, traffic signals would be installed at the intersection of Kingsway and Wilbar Avenue, Cronulla.
