Nanum Hospital Pathway Link Project

WTA is undertaking works to improve the connectivity between the Weipa Integrated Health Service and the Nanum shopping precinct, and to improve safety on the shared use crossing at Kerr Point Drive.

The works will include installing ‘Wombat’ crossings on John Evans Drive, and Kerr point Drive, construction of 348m of 2.5 m wide off-road shared pathway linking to existing pathways and continuing on the southern side of Kerr Point Road and improving the lighting of both crossings. See the Map for more details.

A wombat crossing is the affectionate name given to a zebra crossing placed on top of a wide, flat and elevated road hump such as the crossing from the shopping centre to the post office.

The elevated road hump is typically at the same level of the footpath. The design of a wombat crossing means that pedestrians walk at the same level as they move from one side of the road to the other.

Drivers must give way to a pedestrian or rider of a bicycle on or entering the crossing and must drive at a speed which allows them to stop safely before the crossing if necessary.

All road rules relating to roundabouts will also still apply.

The WTA has been aware of community concerns with the safety of cyclists and pedestrians accessing the Weipa Hospital since its construction in 2009. The WTA has conducted feasibility studies and consulted with key stakeholders over recent years to determine the most effective and affordable solution.

This safety upgrade will provide safe and efficient connections between the Weipa Town Centre, the Weipa Health Service and the surrounding suburbs of Nanum and Trunding.

The wombat crossing gives pedestrians and cyclists right of way and increases pedestrian visibility, while the elevated speed hump helps to ensure vehicles slow down and stop for pedestrians.

This project fills a significant missing link in the Weipa Cycle Network and connects existing pathway facilities improving travel time, safety and convenience for cyclists, pedestrians and wheelchair users.

The works are expected to take approximately 10 weeks in total with the entire project due for completion by Mid-September.

Road traffic changes will be in place for a large portion of the project but not all. WTA will update motorists of traffic changes as they occur using the electronic notice boards and social media.

The Wombat crossings will be completed separately and each section of road will reopen once the concrete speed hump reaches the required strength. Road traffic changes will also be required for line marking once all construction is completed.