Inspired in part by a recent visit from Dutch cycling professor, Marco te Brömmelstroet, the Shire of Augusta Margaret River has announced plans to establish a bike plan with assistance from local riders.
A community reference group has been created to allow members of the public to provide feedback on current cycling hazards and impediments as well as suggesting new concepts for future infrastructure.
The Shire will match a $30,000 investment through the Department of Transport’s Regional Bicycle Network Program to fund the program, which is expected to take 15 months to complete.
Shire President Ian Earl said it was important that the planning involved residents who experience the best and worst of local cycling.
“Engagement with the local community and stakeholder groups will be a critical component of this plan,” he said.
“We would particularly like to hear from any members of the community who have experience riding in towns and cities around the world with excellent cycling infrastructure and riding culture.”
Local cyclist Stephanie Turner said her daily commute to work in the centre of town was an enjoyable one, but could be made safer and easier for those in the suburbs and further afield.
“There are some parts of my ride in from Riverslea that are tricky; awkward kerbs and difficult sections of road where there are no safe ways to cross driveways or intersections,” Ms Turner said.
“I love riding my bike and I would ride it a lot more if there was a way of doing so without having to jostle for position around town.”
Ms Turner said relatives in other towns enjoyed well established cycle networks which allowed them to commute without crossing heavy traffic or going ‘off road’.
“I know they can cycle home after dark and be relatively safe, simply because the system is set up that way.
“It will be fantastic to have something similar here for all bike riders, those who do it for the sport as well as kids, families and everyday cyclists like me, who just want to get home with the shopping safely.”
The Shire will consider best practices demonstrated in other cities around the world, including the cycling-mad Netherlands.
Shire Manager Asset Services Dave Nicholson said there was much inspiration to be drawn from other locations while considering the unique nature of Margaret River and surrounding areas.
“There are many cities showing there is real benefit in supporting cycling infrastructure,” Mr Nicholson said.
“It reduces traffic congestion and pollution, promotes a healthy lifestyle and with so many people living and holidaying around the town it makes sense to ensure cycling is safe and accessible.
A group of Shire staff, councillors and guests attended a presentation by the visiting Professor te Brömmelstroet, who said the opportunity to create solid cycling infrastructure was possible in any location.
“Contrary to international perceptions, Amsterdam has not always had a strong cycling culture, but this has developed over time,” he said.
Members of the public wishing to take part in the Bike Plan Community Reference Group can contact David Nicholson via email on dnicholson@amrshire.wa.gov.au before 5pm Monday January 30 2017.
Further opportunities for broader community consultation on the program will arise in future.
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
