Cardinia Shire Council has announced it will connect eight new footpaths throughout the shire, including around the Dandenong Ranges, as part of its 2017-’18 footpath program.
The program aims to complete many of the missing links in footpaths across local townships and add to the footpath projects being carried out in council-managed parks and reserves.
Some of the projects include a gravel footpath from the service station in Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Gembrook to Station Street, to complete the pedestrian link from the town centre to Gembrook Recreation Reserve.
Also, upgrading the existing gravel path in Macclesfield Road, Avonsleigh, between Belgrave-Gembrook and Fairway roads, which will improve access for all abilities in the township.
Meanwhile, a new concrete path will be completed in Fairbridge Lane, Cockatoo, connecting the Cockatoo to Gembrook multi-use trail (currently under construction).
Also, a new path along Pinnocks Road, Emerald, which will link residential areas currently without a footpath and join the new path, which will be constructed as part of this year’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategy program, linking Clematis and the Emerald township.
The pedestrian and bicycle program will see two additional footpaths constructed.
The Clematis to Emerald shared path along the Puffing Billy railway corridor (which has also received a $100,000 TAC grant) aims to improve pedestrian access to local recreation reserves.
Mayor Cr Brett Owen said council had worked through a list of over 300 paths from across the municipality to select the projects that were delivered each financial year.
“Each path is assessed on its strategic value, safety, usage and community demand,” he said.
“Working through that list is a long-term priority for us, when we go through the budget each year.
“We know there are many footpaths that need to be constructed and existing ones that need to be connected in all townships.
“We are committed to delivering more and more kilometres of paths each year, so residents can move around their neighbourhood safely.”
