Weekly safety complaints at Newcastle school crossing spur urgent review
Hamilton South Public School's P&C receives weekly complaints about red-light runners at a nearby pedestrian crossing.
Parents at Hamilton South Public School have raised urgent safety concerns about the Stewart Avenue pedestrian crossing, reporting at least one complaint a week. One parent, Katie Kepner, witnessed a car run a red light as the crossing began, nearly hitting pedestrians.
E-bike riders are frequently running red lights during school hours, often observed to be young people, parents report. Megan Saffioti, president of the school's P&C, witnessed approximately 10 pedestrians narrowly miss a car that drove through a red light.
Most incidents occur during school drop-off and pick-up times when more children are crossing. The P&C has asked Transport for NSW, City of Newcastle, and the state member for Newcastle to review the crossing's safety.
Transport for NSW said it will investigate the concerns with relevant authorities and the school community.
- at least one per week
- Complaints frequency
- approximately 10
- Pedestrians in one incident
- Stewart Avenue pedestrian crossing
- Location
- Hamilton South Public School
- School
Why it mattersChildren at a busy school depend on traffic signals to cross safely. When drivers and riders ignore them, the risk to young pedestrians grows.
AustraliaNo impact beyond Newcastle. For families at Hamilton South Public School, Transport for NSW's investigation may lead to safety improvements.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
