MidCoast Council's new Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan (PAMP) and Bike Plan provides a series of strategies to improve facilities for walking and cycling across the mid-North coast region of New South Wales.
The plan was adopted unanimously by Councillors earlier this month, after being tailored specifically for individual towns and villages through extensive community consultation.
The plan says: "MidCoast Council is committed to developing pedestrian access, accessible footpaths, shared pathways, cycleways, bike facilities and community pedestrian/cycle systems to ensure effective links for its community.
These links will contribute to health and wellbeing outcomes of our communities by encouraging active recreation and to encourage the incorporation of active transport networks into future development thus promoting positive environmental and social outcomes."
It also references upgrading existing on-road cycling facilities to provide adequate separation from vehicles, and discusses the proven tourism benefits associated with improving bike safety and infrastructure.
MidCoast Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Engineering, Rob Scott, said it is a great plan for the region and one that a lot of consultation has gone into ensuring the needs of each community are met.
“We received 394 submissions from community members which helped inform the final version of the plan and we’ll be working with community groups and organisations in the future to assist in implementing these projects where possible.”
The plan is all about connecting communities and ensuring accessibility for everyone across the MidCoast, including people with a disability, but it’s also about increasing leisure opportunities and encouraging an active lifestyle.
“We know how important it is for our community to see improved pedestrian and mobility access across the region.
“These links will contribute to health and wellbeing outcomes of our communities through active recreation, and encouraging the incorporation of active transport networks into future development will promote positive environmental and social outcomes,” said Rob.
This plan will now form the basis of future funding opportunities from within Council, as well as the State and Federal Governments.
You can find out more about the plan on the Council's website.
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