The future of cycling infrastructure in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste region has been outlined in a new strategy that will form the blueprint for cycling investment into the future.
The Leeuwin-Naturaliste 2050 cycling strategy is among the first of a range of regional cycling strategies to be released for every region in Western Australia. They are being developed to better align State and local government visions, and to improve WA’s cycling connectivity.
Opportunities for connecting and extending cycling infrastructure to enhance riding experiences for residents, and boost tourism by showcasing some of the region’s best natural assets to visitors are all outlined in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste strategy.
The blueprint divides cycling routes into five key categories including primary routes, secondary routes, local route, tourist trails and road cycling routes.
The strategy outlines recommended actions and priorities in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste region such as:
- Investigating a cycling link between Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste;
- Shared paths alongside major roads such as Bussell Highway and Busselton Bypass;
- Completing tourism and mountain bike routes such as the Wadandi Track from Busselton to Augusta;
- Investigating connections between towns throughout the South-West region; and
- Improving Margaret River town centre cycling connections following the opening of the perimeter road.
Priorities outlined across the strategy will guide future funding allocated through the Western Australian Bicycle Network Grants Program.
Visiting Margaret River today, Transport Minister Rita Saffioti confirmed funding towards a key local project through a Regional Bicycle Network Grant of $20,000 towards the Wadandi Track underpass.
The grant will help the Shire of Augusta Margaret River create a feasibility study to build a cycling underpass for the Wadandi Track to go under Carters Road.
Further Regional Bicycle Network Grants will be finalised and announced in coming weeks.
The regional cycling strategy was developed collaboratively with the South West Development Commission, local government and community groups, and is available on the Department of Transport’s website.
As noted by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The south-west corner of WA is well positioned to become one of Australia’s best regions for cycling – with high potential for long distance, off-road and scenic route expansion.
“Cycling tourism is becoming increasingly popular across Australia and overseas, and there are many opportunities in the South-West to capitalise on this potential.
“Together, the regional strategies outline a range of opportunities, from connecting towns, to making better use of closed and disused rail corridors and enhancing cycling routes along our ocean and river foreshores.
“Creating healthier, more active and better-connected communities is a fundamental objective of our transport vision and riding and walking facilities play an important role in this.
“Strategically delivering the South-West cycling network will also help ensure local infrastructure provides opportunities for those who want to ride their bike for leisure or as part of their daily commute.
“The Wadandi Track is a great facility for locals and tourists alike so we are actively supporting ways to improve and extend it, in line with our new regional cycling strategies.
“The proposed underpass will improve safety for cyclists and walkers using the Wadandi Track, and motorists using Carters Road. When we improve safety, we also encourage less experienced riders to get involved in cycling.
“The funding will help the Shire of Augusta Margaret River prepare a detailed feature survey, geotechnical testing, investigation of underpass options, community consultation, civil engineering design, cost estimation and preparation of a construction management plan.”
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