The Hills Shire Council is updating its Bike Plan: Urban Area Strategic Review and is encouraging residents to “have their say”.
The draft Plan provides a strategic framework that addresses current cycling facilities, as well as opportunities to drive cycling growth in the Shire, particularly in the newer areas such as Box Hill and North Kellyville.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi said he wants to ensure The Hills remains a place where people can move around easily, safely and that there are different modes of travel options available to residents and visitors.
“Our Shire is growing and so is cycling,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“We saw more and more people taking up this mode of transport, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and we want to encourage this. It’s also an inexpensive mode of transport, it’s a great form of exercise and good for our environment.
“This Plan looks at our current pathway and cycling networks, as well as opportunities to capitalise on these facilities and create more of these networks in our newer suburbs.
“I commend Council on this document and I encourage our residents and cycling groups to provide their feedback,” he added.
The Plan also looks to improve current cycling routes over time, especially in the urbanised parts of The Shire.
“Most of our residents who live in these parts are located about three kilometres from shops, schools, recreational facilities, public transport and other local services. This means, if the right facilities are in place, residents could access these centres within a short 10-15 minute bike ride,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“That’s why we are reviewing our networks, and really looking at those missing links and ways we can improve on our connectivity,” he added.
It also aims to address pathway deficiencies and opportunities to seek funding to create more shared pathways and cycling networks.
To have your say, visit Council’s website (www.thehills.nsw.gov.au) and click on the ‘Have Your Say’ tab.
