Speed cut near notorious Montague Street Bridge in bid to improve safety

Drivers approaching South Melbourne’s infamous Montague Street Bridge will soon need to slow down, with the state government announcing a reduced speed limit in a renewed effort to prevent vehicles from striking the low-clearance overpass.

From late May, the speed limit along a 350-metre stretch of Montague St between Munro and Buckhurst streets will be cut from 60km/h to 40km/h. The change, funded by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), aims to give drivers more time to register warning signs and stop before crashing into the three-metre clearance bridge.

The bridge, which supports the Route 109 tram line, has become a symbol of frustration for authorities and amusement for the public, owing to the persistent number of collisions by over-height trucks despite multiple preventative measures.

In 2016, the state government installed overhead warning gantries with dangling plastic paddles to alert drivers of their vehicle’s height before reaching the bridge. However, incidents have continued, often making headlines and causing widespread disruption.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said the reduced speed was a logical next step to improve safety in the area.

“We know that reducing speeds also reduces the likelihood and severity of crashes, which is why we’ve made this important change to the speed on this stretch of Montague St,” she said.

TAC CEO and former City of Port Phillip CEO Tracey Slatter said the new speed limit showed how “a small change can have a big impact on safety in a busy road environment”.

The revised limit will become legally enforceable once signage is installed and uncovered. Crews are expected on site later this month.

Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor said the safer speed would help ensure smoother and safer journeys for everyone travelling on or over Montague St.