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Belmont bike lane gets the go ahead

Geelong’s most controversial bike lane in Belmont has been given the go-ahead following a council meeting last night.

On Tuesday night, Geelong City Councillors voted to endorse designs for a bike link that would connect Geelong to Waurn Ponds, via Gheringhap Street, Carr Street and Moorabool Street, before running the length of High Street in Belmont.

The decision comes 18 months after the council first unveiled plans for two new cycling links to the CBD funded as part of a $4.7M TAC grant.

The routes are the first in the series of strategic cycling corridors that will form part of the high-quality bike networks to be rolled out in Victorian cities and towns over the next 15 years.

The preferred design will include a separated one-way bike lane on both sides of High Street, with the expected loss of 30-83 on-street parking spaces.

Inevitably, there was opposition from some traders in Belmont who were concerned about the loss of car parking.

However, investigations by the council demonstrated that Belmont has a massive supply of car parking only minutes’ walk from the traders, and that at any given moment more than 100 spaces are always vacant.

There are also countless examples from around the world where local business owners have over-estimated the impact of removing car parking spaces when developing their neighbourhoods.

More than a bike connection that makes it easier for more people to ride, this project is seen as an opportunity to create an appealing shopping, dining and social destination.

Bicycle Network would like to congratulate the council and recognise the work of local bike groups and bike riders for getting behind this project to ensure the best outcome for people who ride. 

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Members pedal - Geelong

The timing of the announcement couldn't be more perfect with Bicycle Network hosting a special Members' Pedal in Geelong this weekend on Saturday 4 May. 

Departing from Barwon Valley Park, Belmont at 8am, Bicycle Network members are invited to join us for an easy 15km family-friendly loop or 70km road-rail trail ride along the Bellarine Peninsula. 

Bicycle Network members will also receive a free coffee and croissant after the ride at Black Cup Cafe. 

The ride is FREE but RSVP is essential. Click the button below to register and for more details.  

REGISTER

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