Help make cycling and walking best ways to get around in Kingston

Help make cycling and walking the best ways to get around in Kingston

The City of Kingston is getting ready to start work on a new five-year Walking and Cycling Plan, which will help shape Council’s decision-making and investment in road and path projects.

Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said that the Walking and Cycling Plan will aim to make emission-free transportation options the first choice for residents when making short trips around Kingston. “Before we get started on this important body of work, we want to hear from you to make sure we get it right,” Cr Staikos said.

Between 20 September and 24 October, community members are invited to take part in a community consultation, where they can pin their ideas for improving walking and cycling in Kingston (and can also post comments on other people’s suggestions), onto a map of the municipality. This can be accessed at yourkingstonyoursay.com.au.

Many local journeys in the municipality are relatively short – less than 5km. However, most cycle trips in Kingston are made recreationally, rather than for practical reasons, i.e., travelling to/from work or accessing other destinations such as shops, schools, and public transport.

Wattle Ward Councillor Jenna Davey-Burns said Council wants to make getting around without a car the best option for all short trips. “There are so many reasons to opt for walking, cycling or even roller-skating,” said Cr Davey-Burns. “They are not only healthy ways to travel, but they also cost nothing and produce zero emissions: so are beneficial to the environment too.”

The City of Kingston has great potential for increasing cycling and walking options as is it relatively flat and has a ‘spine’ of activity centres and destinations that are well connected by transport networks such as the Nepean Highway and the railway corridors.

Kingston Council has declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency and is committed to reducing emissions. “By providing attractive and safe cycling and walking routes, we aim to create appealing alternatives to driving for short journeys,” said Cr Staikos. “This will all help to slow growth in traffic congestion and reduce the demand on car parking at major destinations.”

“Although we have named walking and cycling, we want to hear from everyone, including those who use skateboards, scooters, wheelchairs and walk prams.”

/Public Release. View in full here.