If you have ever driven along a winding mountain road, you will know it can be no stranger to a bit of drama.

Recently, though, it is not the potholes or the hairpin bends causing a stir—it is the new road markings that have locals scratching their heads and, in some cases, seeing red.


The intention behind these changes was noble enough: to make the road safer for everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

But as we all know, the road to good intentions can sometimes be paved with confusion (apparently, a lot of green and white paint).


The changes, rolled out after weeks of roadworks, addressed what Transport for NSW data calls a 'notoriously frustrating and dangerous stretch.'

The new look is a confusing green and white lines, and bold 'Give Way to Bikes' messages painted right onto the bitumen.

But instead of bringing harmony, the markings have sparked a full-blown debate. Some residents are fuming, feeling that the changes favour cyclists at the expense of drivers.


Others are worried the new lines are more likely to cause accidents than prevent them.

'It’s like someone is doing this on purpose to annoy us with all the stupid changes, every time they do it,' one local vented on social media.

Another chimed in, 'So let me get this straight, we pay registration and insurance for our roadworthy vehicles, yet now have to give way to unregistered bicycles?'

And it wasn’t just about fairness. Some pointed out that the new layout could actually make things more dangerous for everyone.

'This is more dangerous for cyclists now. It gives the false sense of security that the green area is safe for cyclists, yet only a handful of drivers will adhere to the markings. Stay on the path, Lycra lovers. Be safe,' one commenter warned.

With the community in uproar, the Blue Mountains City Council was quick to respond. Mayor Mark Greenhill took to social media to reassure residents: 'This is all about community safety and if those using the road don’t feel the current road markings do this then we need to look at that and respond. Which is what we have done.'

In practical terms, this meant some of the green markings were removed to simplify things, and the council promised further improvements to help everyone navigate the area safely.

However, the 'Give Way to Bikes' reminders are here to stay, with the council doubling down on their commitment to cyclist safety.

A council spokesperson explained: 'Community safety—for all road users including vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists—is at the heart of all of these improvements.'

This isn’t the first time new road markings have caused a stir, and it likely won’t be the last. Across Australia, as more people take up cycling and walking, councils are under pressure to make roads safer for everyone. But finding the right balance is tricky.

Many older Australians remember a time when roads were simpler—just a few lines, a couple of signs, and everyone knew the rules.

Now, with shared zones, bike lanes, and pedestrian crossings popping up everywhere, it can feel like you need a degree in traffic management just to get to the shops.

For now, the council is promising to keep an eye on the situation and make further tweaks as needed.

But if you’re driving through the Blue Mountains any time soon, keep your wits about you—and maybe give a little extra space to those on two wheels.
Have you encountered confusing or controversial road markings in your area? Do you think cyclists and drivers are being treated fairly? And what’s the strangest thing you’ve ever seen painted on the road? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories—share them in the comments below.

Read more: Drivers stunned as mysterious road markings pop up—here’s what you need to know