Coalition pledges funds for Ironbark Gully Trail

THE Federal Coalition has announced a $1 million commitment, if elected on 3 May, to fund various upgrades to the Ironbark Gully Trail, a two-kilometre shared path running from Holmes Road to Nolan Street in North Bendigo.

Nationals candidate for Bendigo Andrew Lethlean said the works would improve access to open spaces and support active, connected lifestyles for the growing Bendigo community.

“This is a fantastic project that locals have been calling for and I’m proud to say a Coalition Government will deliver the funding needed to make it happen,” he said.

Liberal candidate for Bendigo Matt Evans added that the commitment will help create a safer link for bike riders and pedestrians to access local recreational facilities and schools.

“I’ve had strong feedback from families about the need for more footpaths and trails that encourage families to access local facilities, such as the North Bendigo Recreation Reserve and Garden Gully Recreation Reserve,” he said.

Also attending the announcement was Kevin Hogan, Shadow Minister for Trade and Tourism, who said the project is an example of the Coalition’s commitment to real, local infrastructure.

“The Coalition believes in building up our regions not just with words, but with funding that makes a difference,” he said.

Responding to the news, City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney said the funding will help “deliver for the needs of the local community.”

“As part of the City’s 2019 Walk, Cycle Greater Bendigo Strategy the City is committed to create a fully connected protected walking and cycling network that enables walkers and bike riders to get where they need to go in their every-day lives, like school, work, shops, community facilities or simply (to) visit friends and family,” he said.

Further details regarding the Walk, Cycle Greater Bendigo Strategy can be found on the COGB website at bendigo.vic.gov.au.