Safer Cycling Strategy delivers 22% of planned actions in first year

Surf Coat Shire’s safer cycling strategy delivered 22 per cent of planned actions in the first year of a five-year strategy, it was revealed in Council’s November meeting.

Cr Mike Bodsworth said the first-year report captures Council’s commitment to making sure residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors safely on two wheels.

“As a passionate cyclist this strategy is one close to my heart,” Cr Bodsworth said.

“Projects undertaken so far include an options analysis for the provision of a safe Central Torquay to North Torquay cycling connect, Horseshoe Bend Road cyclist safety improvements and safe cycling signage on high-risk routes across the shire.

“This includes the installation of improved cyclist safety signs/line marking on existing routes like South Beach Road.

“We’ve successfully secured and are progressing funding bids to support future cycling infrastructure including the current Fischer Street black spot, and the recently developed funding bid for a Bell Street black spot improvement project.”

Council adopted the Surf Coast Safer Cycling Strategy Action Plan 2022-2027 in August last year, to help improve cycling safety throughout the region.

The strategy was developed with TAC funding and encourages healthy and connected communities through an integrated cycling network.

This includes implementation of safer infrastructure, speeds, and signs on the highest cyclist risk roads.

Council with the support of external funding is working to deliver a range of active transport, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure improvements in 2024-25.

“There are so many benefits to implementing a safer cycling strategy, not only from an environmental perspective. Everyone deserves to be able to exercise and enjoy the region on two wheels safely,” Cr Bodsworth said.