Irritation over Honeysuckle's 30kmh speed limit spilled into council chambers this week, with councillors trading barbs over cruise control, "pencil pushers" and whether drivers should simply slow down.
The debate ended with Newcastle councillors backing a push to gauge public support for the harbour foreshore speed zone.
Liberal councillor Callum Pull moved the motion, seeking community consultation on the stretch which he said has frustrated drivers.
"This is in response to concerns that have been raised by residents about a zone that they don't like," he said.
"As the local council and as the local government in this area, we do have a responsibility to stand up for ratepayers and advocate on their behalf.
"I think it is entirely reasonable that we ask for transport to fix the original sin, if you will, and undertake some community consultation on this issue."
Transport for NSW (TFNSW) is responsible for setting speed limits on state, regional and local roads.
The speed limit on Honeysuckle Drive, Wharf Road and Shortland Esplanade dropped to 30kmh more than four years ago as part of a trial to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.
On Tuesday night, Greens councillor Joel Pringle took aim at comments Cr Pull made about "pencil pushers and academics" in the transport department in the Newcastle Herald last week.
"I'd much quicker put my trust in the pen pushers and the academics of the transport department than Cr Pull cruising having abdicated control," he said.
Cr Pull said 30kmh is below the threshold for many vehicles to use cruise control, meaning the road has become a "magnet for revenue raising".
Independent councillor Peter Gittins said feedback he has received from the community is that the 30kmh zone is safe and potentially prevents accidents.
"Let's also note the fact that over the course of the next 10 to 15 years there is going to be substantial development on the far side of Honeysuckle Drive," he said.
"That's going to incorporate massive development, and there may be calls for that speedl imit to in fact be reduced given the ongoing development."
The council will write to the state government asking it to undertake community consultation around satisfaction with the 30kmh zone from Honeysuckle Drive to Wharf Road at Nobbys beach.
Councillors have asked to be told when the community consultation will take place, and to be briefed on the outcomes.
If community consultation shows a majority of residents are unhappy with the 30kmh limit, the council will apply to TFNSW asking for a review.
