Citizens and cyclists across the South West have put forward ideas for the proposed draft Bunbury-Geographe 2050 Cycling Strategy.
The plan was designed to look at options for creating future tourism opportunities and for enhancing pre-existing cycling resources for residents.
Options discussed by the proposal have included primary routes between Bunbury and Busselton as well Bunbury and Mandurah.
The Department of Transport has also planned to create tourist trails, including potential connections between Capel and Peppermint Grove Beach, Busselton and the Munda Biddi Trail, and Capel and Boyanup.
The South West Development Commission, City of Bunbury, Shire of Capel, Shire of Dardanup, Shire of Harvey, and Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup were all involved in the consultation process.
The Greater Bunbury Bicycle Users Group made a submission to the Department of Transport during the community feedback stage.
Greater Bunbury Bicycle Users Group treasurer Peter Eckersley said they called for the Department of Transport to provide more funding and to fix problem areas for riders in Bunbury and Busselton.
The group would also like to see friendlier, more attractive bike paths built between Bunbury and surrounding areas.
“It’s part of a state-wide agenda...and it has happily coincided with the five-yearly review of our local bike plan,” he said.
“It gives us comfort that there is a logical and democratic way of working out these plans.
“The plan actually brings to bear an educated view of the potential and the needs for cycling in this area.
“It all requires analysis and the proper people to be around the table.
“We need to get the infrastructure as soon as possible to produce cycling routes that are completely separated from motorised traffic.”
They, however, acknowledge that consultations must be conducted before operations can take place.
The Greater Bunbury Bicycle Users Group meets two/three times per year to discuss potential improvements to cycling areas throughout the region.
They also deliver submissions to the City of Bunbury, other shire councils, and government departments.
Greater Bunbury Bicycle Users Group deputy chair Chris Phillips said their submissions have been designed to “bring safety concerns to the relevant authorities”.
Accident hotspots recently noted by the group include patches along Ocean Drive.
What do you think of the strategy? Contact editor.bunburymail@fairfaxmedia.com.au.
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