2016-02-02 I&S Committee - Item 4 - Attachment 1 - Noosa Traffic Study

commercial development within Noosa over the period of this study is also expected to occur at
a low rate.


1.6 Study methodology
In the circumstances outlined above, with expected low rates of population and commercial
area growth, this traffic study has reasonably been undertaken in the absence of area wide
road network modelling, and has been undertaken on the basis of applying growth factors to
existing traffic movements. Because intersection capacities essentially define the capacity of
an urban road network, extensive traffic counts were undertaken throughout the road system as
a basis for intersection analysis following application of growth factors.

The study analysed all critical intersections under 2015 peak hour conditions. It then analysed
all critical intersections under predicted 2036 peak hour traffic conditions, at the end of the
design horizon for this study. For the intersections that are insufficient under 2036 conditions,
further analysis was then undertaken to identify recommended upgrading measures and when
those upgrading measures are likely to be required.


1.7 Conclusion
The study concludes that the existing Noosa road network can be suitably upgraded to
satisfactorily accommodate traffic flow projections to the 2036 design year while retaining the
free flowing roundabout based system without signalised intersections. Importantly however,
flow metering of one or two critical roundabouts will be necessary during Peak periods to
maintain the roundabout based system. Upgrading of the road network to achieve that
outcome, and associated suggested timing to maintain congestion free conditions during the
busy holiday times of the year, are recommended and outlined in this report.

The most critical part of the Noosa road system is the section of Eumundi Noosa Road
between Beckmans Road and Eenie Creek Road. Critically, if future developments within the
coastal area are approved that add significant traffic flows to that part of the road system, then
it is unlikely that the free flowing roundabout based system could be retained, and that
upgrading of intersections to full traffic signal control would then be required. Such an outcome
would be very costly to implement and is contrary to Noosa’s traffic management philosophy

This study also includes recommendations regarding some upgrading of State-roads within
Noosa Shire to facilitate cooperation with the State government regarding planning for
implementation of State-controlled roads. In this respect it is suggested that for the benefit of
the Noosa community and visitors to the region, Council pursue such infrastructure
improvements with the State government. It is also recommended that the duplication of
Beckmans Road be pursued with the State government as a matter of urgency, as this road is
already in need of upgrading and there is a Deed of Agreement in place for DTMR to undertake
such works.




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