Mount Gambier council reveals draft plan to upgrade cyclepaths and walkways

Upgraded and better-linked cycle and walking paths are part of a plan for Mount Gambier, with the council asking if it’s got it right.

City of Mount Gambier council is hoping to recreate the success of the city's rail trail by improving and developing new footpath infrastructure across the region. PICTURE: City of Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier wants to build on the success of its popular Rail Trail network to create a network of quality, safe walk and cycle paths through the city.

A draft shared path masterplan identifies which walkways for pedestrians, cyclists or mobility vehicle users need improvements or upgrades to increase accessibility and connectivity to better link the city.

Council is now seeking feedback on its draft from the city before signing off.

City of Mount Gambier general manager city infrastructure Barbara Cernovskis said the council hoped to replicate the success of the city’s Rail Trail network, which is hugely popular with cyclists, walkers and runners.

“Our Rail Trail is a great example of a successful shared path for pedestrians and cyclists to travel across the city,” Ms Cernovskis said.

City of Mount Gambier council is hoping to recreate the success of the city's rail trail by improving and developing new footpath infrastructure across the region. PICTURE: City of Mount Gambier

“Council wishes to further expand on this type of infrastructure and continue to improve accessibility.”

One key area the plan aims to address is increasing the width and coverage of footpaths in Mount Gambier’s north and also those along main roads.

The Masterplan reveals footpath coverage north of the busy Jubilee Highway offers poor service for walking and accessibility for much of the local road network and residential areas despite accounting for more than 50 per cent of the Mount Gambier population, likely deterring people in those area from walking and cycling along those paths.

A map of the current Mount Gambier footpath infrastructure. PICTURE: City of Mount Gambier

Ms Cernovskis said the council wanted to use the masterplan to develop quality, safe footpaths to encourage active transport such as walking, cycling and rollerblading.

“Quality infrastructure improves connectivity and increases participation in active transport which reduces reliance on motorised forms of transport and is good for health outcomes,” Ms Cernovskis said.

In 2023, council sought community feedback for the plan through a digital mapping exercise, a survey and a series of workshops to identify current and future needs.

“Walkers indicated that improving footpaths was of high importance to them, followed by prioritising pedestrian safety,” Ms Cernovskis said.

“Meanwhile, cyclists would like to see additional dedicated cycling paths in the city.”

The draft includes a map of recommended shared pathways.

A map of some of the recommended pathways being put forward as part of the masterplan.

The Masterplan also includes details on other amenities that may/will be developed alongside the new pathways including:

• shade/shelters
• bicycle parking
• maintenance stations (air pumps for tires etc)
• water stations
• rest areas
• skill building facilities (tracks and expanses where people can practice their riding and other mobility skills to build confidence and abilities
• public art

The Masterplan draft is open for public consultation at www.haveyoursaymountgambier.com.au/shared-path-master-plan until March 15.