Merimbula CBD to trial one-way streets and roundabouts

TL;DR

Bega Valley Shire Council plans a six-month trial of one-way streets and new roundabouts in Merimbula's CBD to improve traffic flow.
Market St becomes one-way from Merimbula Drive to lights; Beach St one-way full length; roundabouts at three key intersections.
Trial tests pedestrian upgrades and space use during peak seasons before any permanent changes.

The story at a glance

Bega Valley Shire Council will vote on April 22 to approve public exhibition of a traffic masterplan trial for Merimbula's central business district. The plan, led by council staff including director Andrew Latta and acting CEO Emily Harrison, restructures streets like Market and Beach to one-way with roundabouts at Merimbula Drive-Market St, Main St-Market St, and Sapphire Coast Dr-Main St. It's reported now ahead of a month-long community consultation, with work tentatively set for August-September.

Key points

Market St one-way from Merimbula Drive to traffic lights; no turns into it from main lights, requiring a loop via Beach St.
Beach St one-way full length from Market St to Main St; loses four parking spots, relocated nearby.
New roundabouts at Merimbula Drive-Market St, Main St-Market St, and Sapphire Coast Dr-Main St to ease flow.
Speed limits drop to 10km/h on short southern Beach St section, 30km/h elsewhere.
Trial runs about six months, covering Christmas peak and quieter periods for full feedback.
Pedestrian focus includes upgraded seating, landscaping, and events space on Beach St.
Final designs await consultation outcomes.

Details and context

The changes aim to cut congestion, boost pedestrian access, and activate public spaces in Merimbula's busy CBD. Drivers heading northbound must loop around using the new roundabouts near Club Sapphire and Top Fun, avoiding queues at main lights. Parking adjustments are minor, with spots shifted along Beach St.

Council has studied Merimbula traffic since at least 2023, adopting a transport plan then but deferring changes earlier this year for more review. This trial gathers real data from locals and tourists before permanence.[[1]](https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/9226231/merimbula-one-way-streets-roundabouts-to-trial-new-traffic-flow/)[[2]](https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/8431706/one-way-loop-an-option-for-merimbula-cbd)

Key quotes

Acting CEO Emily Harrison: "We're hoping people will give it a chance... adapt to it, get used to it and then see that it is better for everyone."[[1]](https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/9226231/merimbula-one-way-streets-roundabouts-to-trial-new-traffic-flow/)

Why it matters

Better traffic and pedestrian spaces could revitalise Merimbula's CBD for shoppers, visitors, and locals in this coastal tourist spot. Drivers face new routes and minor parking shifts during the trial, while businesses may see more foot traffic. Watch community feedback after consultation and trial results to see if changes stick.