CBD Speed Limit Consultation

A recent study from City of Darwin has uncovered that a majority of motorists in the CBD - over 85% or the 85th percentile* - drive at or below 40 kilometres per hour. City of Darwin is seeking feedback on reducing the speed limit in the CBD to 40 kilometres per hour, in order to prepare for the future. The proposed reduction aims to make way for diverse modes of transport such as more bike paths and extended business activations including parklets, which utilise council car park spaces and shared areas for dining and other business and social activities.

Below is a map (A) showing the current division of CBD speed limitations, and second map (B) showing three proposed areas for speed reduction. The reduction and consequent future planning would align with Councils strategic visions of A Safe, Liveable and Healthy City, A Cool Clean and Green City and A Capital City With Best Practice and Sustainable Infrastructure.

MAP A - downloadable CBD Speed Limits Current.pdf

Frequently asked questions:

Where will the speed limit be introduced?

Currently there are sections of Bennett and Mitchell Streets that are 40km/hr. The remaining streets are 50km/hr. City of Darwin have measured the speed of vehicles travelling in the CBD and vehicles are travelling less than 40km/hr on Cavanagh Street, Smith Street and Knuckey Street. Vehicles are travelling greater than 40km/hr on The Esplanade. With the exception of The Esplanade, all of the 85th percentile* speeds are at or below 40km/hr, which suggests that a 40km/hr speed limit is appropriate for these sections of the road.

Why are we reducing the speed?

Other cities in Australia are reaping benefits of low-speed activity centres that promote micro-mobility, increased activation and other economic, social and environmental benefits. A report was presented to Council on 15 November 2022, to consider a change in the speed limit within the CBD in order to facilitate opportunities such as activation, social connectedness and economic activity.

What are the benefits of a speed reduction and how will this impact our city?

Low-speed streets have shown benefits such as low crime levels, more physically active residents, greater social connectedness, increased spending in local businesses and less carbon emissions.

Who will benifit from the speed reduction?

Residents, local businesses, cyclists, community organisations, entertainment precinct patrons.

*The 85th percentile speed is the speed which 85 per cent of motorists travel at or below and is often considered to be the operating speed of the road and is a traditional consideration when assessing or reviewing speed limits of roads. With the exception of The Esplanade, all of the 85th percentile speeds are at or below 40km/hr, which suggests that a 40km/hr speed limit is already the mean limit for these sections of the road. 

The following questions will ask you to select your preference from MAP B for 40 kilometre per hour zones from either:

• The following questions will ask you to select your preference from MAP B for 40 kilometre per hour zones from either:
  • Blue
  • Blue and yellow
  • Blue, yellow and orange

MAP B - downloadable CBD New Options.pdf

Community consultation closes 5pm Friday 14 April 2023.

For more information, please contact 8930 0300 or email engage@darwin.nt.gov.au