Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt is one of the 14 major roads set for extended clearway hours in an effort to ease congestion across the city. The initiative, part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan – Keeping Brisbane Moving, aims to improve traffic flow by removing parked vehicles during peak hours.
The clearway expansion is designed to alleviate congestion on key roads where parked cars force motorists to weave between lanes, contributing to delays. The plan mirrors Sydney’s clearway strategy, which has reportedly reduced weekday travel times by up to 46 per cent on some roads.
Kicking off with a review of Musgrave Rd-Waterworks Rd between Red Hill and The Gap, the authorities will assess existing clearway times and consider extending no-parking hours to better accommodate increasing traffic volumes. Currently, clearways in this corridor operate from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. inbound and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. outbound, Monday to Friday.
As part of this wider review, Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt has been listed for future clearway extensions, alongside other key roads such as Bowen Bridge Rd–Lutwyche Rd, Wynnum Rd, and Vulture St.
The Case for Extended Clearways in Mt Gravatt
The BCC’s proposal to extend clearways aligns with Brisbane’s growing population and increasing traffic demands. In 2024 alone, more than 9,650 motorists were caught blocking clearways, leading to over 1,660 vehicle tows. Currently, parking in a clearway during restricted hours incurs a fine of three penalty units, or approximately $480.
City official Adrian Schrinner described the clearway expansion as a low-cost but effective congestion-busting measure. He noted that while intersection upgrades could cost millions, and road widening is often unfeasible in areas with established properties, expanding clearway hours can maximise existing road space without major infrastructure costs.
Additionally, public transport efficiency is expected to improve by keeping clearways free of parked cars, allowing buses to move more smoothly through high-traffic corridors.
Community Consultation and Public Concerns
Public consultation will determine the best sites for clearway extensions, with business owners and residents given the opportunity to provide feedback in the coming weeks.
In past years, clearway changes have faced opposition from businesses relying on street parking, particularly in the CBD. Concerns have been raised about customer accessibility, with some business owners arguing that removing parking could reduce foot traffic.
Infrastructure Chair Andrew Wines assured that community input would be considered before finalising any changes. The authorities have committed to balancing traffic efficiency with local business needs, and no-parking hours may be adjusted based on demand and feedback.
However, while the initiative may provide short-term relief, it does not address the city’s larger congestion problems.
What’s Next?
The upcoming consultation period will commence this February and will run for six weeks, after which feedback will be reviewed before implementing changes. Adjustments to clearway hours are expected by mid-year, with further reviews planned for additional corridors, including Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt.
Residents and business owners can contact BCC at 07 3403 8888 for more information.
Published 14-Feb-2025
