Past traffic concerns have been raised about an intersection in the Northam CBD following an incident last Thursday where a York boy was hit by a car when attempting to cross the road near Bernard Park and Peel Terrace Bridge.
It is understood the boy is still in a serious condition at Royal Perth Hospital.
Issues were previously raised about students crossing the road at the other side of Peel Terrace bridge, at the corner of Broome Terrace and Forrest Street, by community members when Avon Bridge was closed for construction.
At the time, Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate asked Main Roads and the Shire of Northam if the corner presented a child safety issue.
Northam Shire chief executive officer Jason Whiteaker said a traffic management plan was developed and implemented by Main Roads WA when the increased traffic was directed to the Peel Terrace Bridge.
He said during peak traffic there were no major issues reported to the Shire of Northam.
Mr Whiteaker said he cannot comment on the recent accident at this stage because it is still being investigated.
“We will await the outcomes of investigations and then look at what, if any remedial actions are required,” he said.
“At the moment all our thoughts are with the family of the young person who has been injured. What we would say to residents of Northam is that obviously this intersection, along with a range of others, becomes busy with foot traffic around school start and close times, so it pays to be aware.
“We would also encourage the school students crossing roads to be careful and respect the road rules at all times.”
About five years ago the Northam Shire constructed a refuge island in the middle of the street to make it safer for pedestrians. But the intersection still receives criticism from members in the community.
Main Roads said the intersection of Broome Terrace and Forrest Street is a local road owned by the Shire of Northam.