On any given weekend or public holiday, cars back up in Sowerby as travellers access the growing service centre area, known for the its eateries, petrol outlets and of course, the Big Merino.

It’s this growing popularity that’s concerning planners. A Goulburn Mulwaree Council commissioned Employment Lands Strategy concluded that the wider enterprise corridor was performing well, with enough businesses to divert travellers from the highway.

“The location of these services arguably shifts travellers from the Goulburn CBD and it is difficult to address this issue specifically. Access around this area is problematic,” consultants HillPDA’s report states. 

They suggested the council explore a potential extension of Tait Crescent, off Finlay Road at the rear of the service centre area. This would linking into Lockyer Street and Sowerby Street. It would involve talks with landowners. The consultants said the solution could also open up new employment lands.

The council is acting on this and other recommendations in the Strategy. At their December 20 meeting councillors agreed to start public consultation and planning to connect a new road between Sowerby Street and Tait Crescent. 

The Strategy also recommended the council undertake an urban design and traffic analysis, exploring ways to slow traffic and improve pedestrian movements in the area. It also advocated intersection improvements at the Ducks Lane/Hume Street intersection to enhance heavy vehicle access.

Finally, it suggested the council examine whether development contributions were too high for the service centre zone and Ducks Lane, and if they were deterring projects.

Nevertheless, the area is growing. A new service station and Red Rooster is under construction near Bunnings and a DA has been lodged for Oporto Chicken, Harry De Wheels cafe and a coffee outlet near the Big Merino.

Sam White, owner of Sowerby Street business Southern Garages and Buildings, witnesses the traffic problems most weekends.

“It’s a nightmare if you want to turn right back into Goulburn,” he said. 

“People who also want to turn into the Bakery (of Goulburn) can’t get in.”

Mr White said the Tait Crescent extension was a “good idea” and suggested the council beautify the area.