Whittlesea walkers and cyclists to see upgraded paths

(Supplied)

By Holly McGuinness

After extensive community consultation, cycling paths will be upgraded and expanded across Whittlesea.

The city’s Walking and Cycling Plan 2022-2027 was approved by council at its meeting on Monday, September 19.

The plan aims to make active travel safer, encourage and promote active travel, build and maintain a high-quality network and monitor active travel into the future.

According to the plan, Whittlesea Council will also connect missing links in existing routes, create safer crossings on busy streets, and address factors that limit participation, such as inadequate shade and lighting along paths.

Safety audits will be conducted at high traffic pedestrian and cycling areas.

Thirty projects under construction or in the design or feasibility stages will be completed under the plan, including connecting the Yan Yean Pipe Track between Childs Road to McDonalds Road.

To promote the improved tracks, council will roll out updated path maps on its website and at local events.

Chair of administrators Lydia Wilson said the 130 submissions received on the plan showed strong community demand for improved cycling and walking infrastructure.

“Our Walking and Cycling Plan addresses these themes through a list of priority actions and projects that will make walking and cycling safer and encourage more active travel by delivering a high-quality path and trail network throughout the City of Whittlesea,” Ms Wilson said.

Details: ​​https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/media/9358/final-walking-and-cycling-2022-2027.pdf