If squeezing into a lycra racing suit and slapping on a bike helmet for a burn between Scone and Lake Glenbawn is your idea of a relaxing weekend, you’ll be pleased to know plans are underway to make your trip a little bit safer.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Upper Hunter Bicycle Plan 2014 is currently open for public comment with the Upper Hunter Shire Council calling for professional and recreational riders of every age and stage to review it.
Upper Hunter Shire mayor Michael Johnsen said the council wanted the plan to accurately reflect community needs.
“At the moment we have a 10 year draft plan to create a safe, accessible bike network to connect cyclists to popular destinations across Scone as well as other towns including Aberdeen, Merriwa and Murrurundi.
“A bike-friendly shire is also a great draw card for visitors and tourists.
“The more people that have their say about the bicycle plan, the more likely we are to get it right,” he said.
The plan includes bicycle lanes, off-road shared pedestrian and bicycle paths between numerous recreational facilities, installation of more bike stands, water bubblers and seating.
St Mary’s Primary School principal Chris Waters said he hoped the plan included a review of cycle paths connecting children to schools.
“We have between five and 20 children that ride to school each day, some are accompanied by parents while others ride on their own or with friends.
“Students from St Joseph’s Aberdeen also ride to our school and drop their bikes off before catching the bus, so we do have a reasonable number of daily bike users.
“Anything we can do to help our kids stay safe on their bikes we would support,” he said.
“While more bike paths would be fantastic, children also need to learn and understand the road rules.”
The plan is available to view at the council offices, the libraries and on the website www.upperhunter. nsw.gov.au
Comments should be posted, faxed or emailed by December 5.
