Petition Pushes for Safer Road Crossing at Mackenzie Place Park in Annerley

A local resident has launched an e-petition calling for urgent safety upgrades at Mackenzie Place Park in Annerley, where locals say crossing the road remains dangerous despite the area’s popularity with families.

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The petition, now with 87 signatures, argues that Sarah Street, which separates the park from nearby shops and cafes, poses a daily risk for children, parents with prams, and older residents trying to access the playground. 

Supporters said the stretch of road is particularly unsafe because of parked cars blocking sight lines, the absence of kerb ramps for wheelchairs and scooters, and cars often travelling well above the 50 km/h speed limit.

Alternative routes to reach the park involve crossing up to three separate roads, with no traffic lights or zebra crossings, leaving many pedestrians to take the most direct but unsafe option – walking across Sarah Street outside the popular Billykart Kitchen.

The petition calls on Brisbane’s local officials to consider two main options for a safer connection. One is the installation of a raised “wombat crossing” built into a speed hump, which would lower traffic speeds and prioritise pedestrians. The other is creating a “shared zone” between Eric Crescent Park and Clifton Street, where vehicles are restricted to 30 km/h and paving signals pedestrian priority.

Residents backing the move say the issue goes beyond safety, arguing that a well-designed crossing could also enhance the precinct. Linking the upgraded playground with Billykart and nearby businesses would provide a more attractive community space, encouraging families to linger and boosting local trade.

Concerns about the possible loss of parking are addressed in the petition, which notes that disability bays, bus zones and short-term customer parking could remain in place. It also argues that weekend church crowds would still have ample parking within easy walking distance.

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The petition closes on 4 January 2026. Locals say that with the playground already drawing strong community use, the next step should be making sure everyone can reach it safely and with less stress.

Published 17-September-2025