The Orana Gardens Retirement Village is in Windsor Parade, behind Orana Mall. Despite speed humps slowing traffic, the growth of Orana Mall and increased cars has made it more difficult for elderly residents to cross.

Since 2012 there have been three car accidents on Windsor Parade, according to Dubbo Regional Council. Of those, two were car crashes which resulted in injury. The latest was in 2014.

Council is currently investing ways to alleviate the pressure of crossing the road.

In a report on the issue, senior traffic engineer Dennis Valantine said there was a noted history of road safety concerns on Windsor Parade.

“While there has been a good road safety history, resident pedestrians still continue to be threatened by the high traffic dominated environment with more vulnerable pedestrians finding it difficult and stressful to cross Windsor Parade,” he said. 

Proposed options to help residents cross into the mall include pedestrian signals and a raised zebra crossing.

However, while traffic signals may be the safest option, and the option recommended by Dubbo Regional Council, it’s not supported by Roads and Maritime Services.

According to RMS, there is not enough traffic on Windsor Parade to warrant the installation of pedestrian signals. About 68 pedestrians cross Windsor Parade on an average day, just shy of the RMS requirements.

The traffic issue will be on the agenda at the June Ordinary Meeting of council at the end of the month. If councillors vote to install the pedestrian signals, both NSW Police and RMS will be given an opportunity to appeal the decision.