Safer cycling a critical link to climate action

THE Surf Coast Shire Council is developing a Safer Cycling Strategy and Action Plan as an emerging report shows 37 bicycle-related crashes in the past five years.

Under new safety measures the council is seeking input from residents while reviewing existing cycling infrastructure on council’s road network, identifying any gaps and listening to cycling concerns.

With the survey opening this week, locals will be able to pinpoint locations where they are experiencing cycling issues on an interactive map.

Deputy mayor Liz Pattison is encouraging all residents to provide input on what she says is an “important strategy”.

“We want to hear from cyclists, parents, drivers, pedestrians – everyone – on their experiences of cycling in the Surf Coast Shire,” Cr Pattison said.

The development of the strategy is being funded by the Transport Accident Commission and comes as way to create more sustainable travel options across the region.

“With a growing population, we’re seeing an increase in the number of commuter and recreation cyclists, so we’re looking at ways to make riding safer and easier for everyone,” she said.

“The Safer Cycling Strategy and Action Plan is also a critical link in council’s climate emergency response.”

Following the consultation period, council will collate all the responses and publish a summary paper with the Surf Coast Safer Cycling Strategy and Action Plan expected to be made available for comment in August.

The initial survey will close May 9, 2021.