Lockhart dismisses Liberal pledge towards bike path

CORANGAMITE independent candidate Kate Lockhart has dismissed a Liberal Party pledge towards a dedicated bike path linking Torquay and Armstrong Creek, saying the project is already well under way.

On Monday this week, Liberal candidate for Corangamite Darcy Dunstan and Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj arrived on bicycles to their press conference at a stretch of Horseshoe Bend Road in Mount Duneed to announce the $2 million election commitment.

“I’ve heard from lots of people who cycle along Horseshoe Bend Road that this stretch of road can be dangerous for even the most experienced riders,” Mr Dunstan said.

“This investment will provide a dedicated, separated bike lane along Horseshoe Bend Road all the way from South Beach Road in Torquay to Warralily Boulevard in Armstrong Creek.”

Mr Dunstan’s commitment follows the Surf Coast Shire and the City of Greater Geelong each receiving $30,000 from the Transport Accident Commission’s Local Government Grant Program in May last year to conduct an options analysis for the best way to connect Torquay and Armstrong Creek.

 

That study focused on off-road alternatives to the Surf Coast Highway, which is considered hazardous for cyclists.

Also on Monday this week, Ms Lockhart said it was great to see strong support for bike infrastructure in the region.

“A safe, dedicated path connecting Torquay to Armstrong Creek is something many locals – myself included – have long supported. It’s in line with our community’s vision for safer, more sustainable transport options.

“But let’s be very clear: the $2 million announced is not new money given to us by the Liberal Party. This is taxpayers’ money. Our money. And this particular bike path has been on the drawing board for years.

“What we’re seeing now is a classic pre-election media stunt, designed to make it look like something new is being delivered, when in fact it’s just a re-announcement of something already in the works.”

The city’s project website for the cycling corridor states community engagement closed on February 3, and the project was due to be finalised by May of this year.