Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is moving forward with an interim traffic safety proposal aimed at reducing the risk of crashes at one of the city's busiest intersections. The proposal would introduce a temporary ban on right-hand turns from Hollingworth Street into Buller Street, following traffic modelling and community feedback that identified ongoing safety concerns at the location.

Council said the intersection serves as a major gateway into the Port Macquarie CBD and experiences heavy traffic throughout the day. According to traffic studies commissioned by the council, the current road layout has resulted in numerous near misses and creates unnecessary conflict between vehicles entering and leaving the city centre. While the number of serious crashes has remained relatively low, experts believe the potential risk is significant enough to justify immediate action.

Under the proposed interim changes, motorists travelling along Hollingworth Street would no longer be permitted to turn right into Buller Street. Instead, drivers would continue straight before using a newly created U-turn facility further ahead to safely access their destination. Additional road markings, updated signage and lane improvements would also be installed to guide motorists through the revised traffic arrangement.

Council representatives said the proposal is intended as a temporary measure while efforts continue to secure funding from the New South Wales Government for permanent traffic lights at the intersection. Traffic signals have long been identified as the preferred long-term solution, but funding has not yet been confirmed. Until then, the interim changes are expected to improve road safety while maintaining access to the city centre.

Mayor Adam Roberts said the recommendation is based on evidence gathered through professional traffic modelling and road safety assessments rather than simply reducing congestion. He emphasised that the council's priority is preventing future crashes and improving safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians using the intersection every day.

Community consultation formed an important part of the proposal, with residents and local businesses providing feedback on traffic movements and possible improvements. While some motorists have expressed concern about slightly longer travel times, council believes the safety benefits outweigh the inconvenience associated with the revised traffic flow. Officials said the changes are expected to create a more predictable traffic environment and reduce the likelihood of dangerous turning conflicts.

If implemented, council will continue monitoring traffic conditions after the changes are introduced. Data collected during the trial period will help determine whether additional improvements are required before permanent infrastructure is delivered. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said improving road safety remains one of its highest priorities as the region continues to grow. The proposed interim turn ban is expected to provide immediate safety benefits while supporting longer-term plans to upgrade one of the city's busiest CBD intersections.