$1.5 million federal funding for Flat to Vale Trail in McLaren Vale wine region
Two iconic towns in the McLaren Vale wine region will soon be connected by a bike and pedestrian path following the announcement of a $1.5 million cash boost.
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The iconic southern townships of McLaren Vale and McLaren Flat could soon be connected by a pedestrian and bike path.
The Federal Government announced $1.5 million of funding for the Flat to Vale Trail in last week’s Federal Budget.
Flat to the Vale Trail Community Group have campaigned for the shared-use path which would connect the McLaren Vale wine region to the Coast to Vines Trail.
“The Flat to the Vale Trail will be a wonderful asset for both townships, but will also strongly contribute to the network of trails that will make this a recreational walking and cycling destination region,” chairwoman Cherise Vallet said.
“I am thrilled to have been part of this community project, and look forward to being there the day the ribbon is cut to open it.”
Onkaparinga Council is considering two options for the off-road path.
One option is a 4.2km long trail including a segment in the northern Kangarilla Road verge and a road crossing at the Kangarilla Road/Foggo Road intersection.
A more direct second option – and the preferred route – is a 3.6km path and on the northern side of Pedler Creek.
Currently pedestrians and cyclist must travel along the 80km/h Chalk Hill or Kangarilla roads in between the towns.
Federal Member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie, who advocated for federal support for the path, said it was great news for the community.
“This proposed shared pathway … would link the highly successful Coast to Vines Rail Trail in the heart of the McLaren Vale region, providing an off-road link between the townships and tourist destinations where currently there is none,” Ms Sharkie said.
Both proposed routes run through private property and landowners have provided Onkaparinga Council with in-principal support for the path to be on their land.
“While we still have some details to finalise I want to express my thanks for the landholders’ willingness to consider this much-needed trail potentially running alongside or in some cases even through their properties,” Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson said.
“Their community spirit has been outstanding.”
Ms Thompson said the council will consider bringing forward the additional $450,000 funding needed to complete the trail.
The proposed routes are open for community feedback until November 9.