Principal Cycle Network Plan for Far North Queensland
- Introduction
- Background
- What is a principal cycle network?
- What is a Principal Cycle Network Plan?
- How was the network identified?
- When will the final plan be available?
- Study area
- Network routes
- How do I find more information?
Introduction
In March 2007, the Department of Transport and Main Roads began developing a Principal Cycle Network Plan for far northern Queensland. As part of developing the plan, the project team consulted with local governments and the community to establish a draft principal cycle network for far northern Queensland.
Maps of the draft network were made available for public comment between May and August 2008. The network has now been finalised following a review of the comments received. The final network maps are available and can be viewed at the Principal Cycle Network Maps for Far North Queensland webpage. The Principal Cycle Network Plan for Far North Queensland is due to be released in 2009.
Background
Studies show that more Queenslanders are cycling for recreation every year, with far north locals being the most active on their bikes. Bicycles have outsold cars in Australia for the past eight years. The Queensland Cycle Strategy set a high-priority, short-term goal of developing principal cycle network plans for regional areas in order to increase cycling rates. In addition, the Department of Transport and Main Roads has adopted a policy of providing cycle facilities on state-controlled roads which have been identified as principal cycle routes.
What is a principal cycle network?
A principal cycle network provides the higher order of arterial routes for cycling which connect major regional destinations. Routes which serve only local functions, such as from a residential estate to a nearby primary school, are not generally included in a principal cycle network.
What is a Principal Cycle Network Plan?
A Principal Cycle Network Plan identifies sections of the network which already exist and those that need to be constructed or upgraded. The plan will outline steps to help state and local government work together to deliver a safe and connected principal cycle network.
How was the network identified?
The study team met with local government officers and reviewed their cycle strategies to identify existing and planned networks. Community groups were very important in contributing local knowledge and information through eight workshops held in Atherton, Cairns, Innisfail and Mossman. Existing and future demands for cycling were also analysed using demographic data, travel patterns, planning schemes and population projections. This analysis suggested areas where new cycling infrastructure would be needed in the future.
When will the final plan be available?
The final Principal Cycle Network Plan for Far North Queensland is expected to be released in 2009.
Study area
The plan includes the local government areas of:
- Cairns Regional Council
- Cassowary Coast Regional Council
- Tablelands Regional Council
- Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council
- Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council
Network routes
The maps illustrate the proposed principal cycle network for far northern Queensland. Two types of routes are identified:
- Principal routes – these routes cater for cycling trips within and between urban centres. These routes connect major residential areas, activity centres and key attractors throughout the region.
- Iconic recreation routes - these routes cater for long distance cycle tourism through the region, highlighting both coastal and tableland opportunitities.
How do I find more information?
Email: regional.manager.ITP.far.northern@transport.qld.gov.au
Post:
- Cycle Network Plan
- Queensland Transport
- PO Box 6542
- Cairns 4870
Last updated 13 November 2009
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