How will you get around Hobart in ten years? New transport plan a “no-brainer”

Hobart has passed a new decade-long transport strategy and e-scooters are a major part of it. Here’s why.

Cyclist Di Elliffe, of Hobart, and e-scooter rider Josh Wise, of Sandy Bay, in front of the River Derwent Ferry. Picture: City of Hobart

E-Scooters are an essential part of the day for Hobart student Josh Wise.

He said as someone with low-vision e-scooters are the central way he gets around Hobart with safety and ease.

“Whether that be from Sandy Bay into the city, or the city back home to school- they’re so easily accessible it’s a no-brainer for me to get around easily and safely,” Mr Wise said.

Micromobility options were a key focus in the Hobart Transport Strategy 2024 which was endorsed by Hobart City Council at Monday’s council meeting.

Acting Lord Mayor Zelinda Sherlock said the strategy had a focus on “creating equity of choice” for transport options.

City of Hobart councillor Dr Zelinda Sherlock. Picture: Chris Kidd

“It’s very important that we have choices.

“[We] understand that people walk, people drive, people scoot, people take the bus and indeed we have ferries available as well,” she said.

“Our vision is to create a city where everyone has effective, safe, healthy, and environmentally friendly ways to move and connect,” Dr Sherlock said.

“The Hobart Transport Strategy 2024 is a bold step towards making this vision a reality, ensuring that our transport network meets the needs of all Hobartians.”

The decade-long strategy will guide the city’s transport planning with a focus on sustainable, convenient, and cost-effective travel choices.

Key priorities in the plan include connecting and protecting strategic bicycle routes, a complete audit of pedestrian crossing and streets and development of a parking and kerbside management plan to align with the strategy.

RACT General Manager Advocacy & Government Relations Melinda Percival said it was “absolutely essential” to have a long-term view of infrastructure planning to meet current and future demands of residents.

“We’ve long advocated for a well-planned and robust transport network, as we know it is essential for the sustainable growth and development of our city,” Ms Percival said.

“We’re supportive of initiatives that promote alternative modes of transport, enabling people to access and live around our capital efficiently.

“It’s crucial to address the current levels of congestion by reducing reliance on cars and encouraging the use of public transport, cycling, and walking.

“There is a pressing need for a strategic and co-ordinated approach to transport across Greater Hobart,” she said.