Member for Ballina, Don Page is urging North Coast residents to take it easy on the roads during the Easter holiday period.

"If local residents are planning a road trip these holidays, I urge them to watch their speed, take a break and allow extra travel time when taking to the road during the Easter period," Mr Page said.

"I also ask local drivers to be patient and tolerant of travelling motorists who may not be as familiar with our roads. 

“Traffic queues are likely in the usual locations, so driving carefully is important during the holiday break,” Mr Page said.

In a continued bid to reduce the road toll, double demerits will apply from midnight Wednesday 5 April to midnight Monday 9 April inclusive.

"An influx of visitors is expected between 5th and 10th April.  In the Byron Shire we have the added attraction of Bluesfest, which will add to the school holiday and Easter traffic. 

"With the weather shaping up to be favourable, and the many attractions our area has, it is to be expected that traffic levels will be increased," Mr Page said.

"Increased traffic at these times of year is one of the small prices to pay for living in the most beautiful part of Australia.  I hope that motorists will keep this in mind and exercise patience if they find themselves in a traffic queue.

“No Pacific Highway upgrade work will be carried out during public holiday long weekend," Mr Page said.

However, road work speed zones are enforceable and remain in place even when there is no work being carried out.

Motorists can prepare for Easter holiday journeys by checking traffic conditions via the Transport Management Centre on 132 701 or visiting www.livetraffic.com.