Belinda Coates

Party: Greens

I live in city/suburb: Ballarat

My commitment: I'm a regular cyclist for transport and recreation and I’ve advocated for improvements to cycling infrastructure in Ballarat on many occasions. The Greens have a good record for being strong advocates for improved funding for cycling infrastructure at the local, state and federal government levels. The City of Ballarat bike strategy was reviewed in 2008. I support the strategy and I’m keen to see goals achieved, as progress has been very slow. It is pleasing that Ballarat Council has finally committed some significant funding towards achieving the goals in the strategy in the recent budget. If I’m elected I’ll be committed to pushing for key improvements identified by Bicycle Network Victoria: - improved connections from the University of Ballarat to Sovereign Hill and the City Centre - more bike parking in shopping centres - high standard cycling and pedestrian infrastructure in growth zones - a shared trail in the rail reserve from Ballarat to Wendoree to provide a off-road route between these centres. (also connecting Ballarat-Skipton rail trail to Central Ballarat and linking Ballarat and Wendouree stations) I also support the employment of a Cycling officer to promote cycling, establish links with schools, champion City of Ballarat staff and to engage the wider community. This would assist in increasing school participation in Ride2School day The Greens have developed a nation wide smart phone app – Bike Blackspot – which provides a means for cycling dangers to be identified. Several blackspots have been put on the map by Ballarat cyclists and I’m committed to advocating for fixes to these local problem areas if I’m elected.

Details on this website: http://vic.greens.org.au/belinda.coates (opens a new window)

Current sitting member: no