Council continues to prioritise footpath projects in Livingstone Shire
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Council has officially endorsed the Walking Network Plans (WNP) for Yeppoon and Emu Park CBDs, to identify and prioritise footpath improvements, enabling future funding applications and improving accessibility and safety for pedestrians.
The plans are proudly funded in part (50 per cent) by the Queensland Government’s Walking Local Government Grants Program and 50 per cent by Council, totalling $72,728.
Council engaged McMurtrie Consulting Engineers to develop the WNPs in 2023, followed by community engagement to obtain feedback on the draft WNPs and provide direction to the priority works program.
Both Council, user groups and the wider community were engaged through Council’s Get Involved platform via an online survey and a workshop conducted last year, to gather input, note areas of importance, and identify gaps in the network.
Councillors recently voted at an Ordinary Council Meeting to endorse the plans, which focuses on connecting key destinations, enhancing access, and encouraging physical activity within the community.
These plans will help make walking an easy and accessible choice for everyone, connecting everyday destinations with safe and comfortable routes.
Infrastructure Committee Co-chair Councillor Glenda Mather said Council successfully secured funding for additional Walking Network Plans in the 2024-2025 financial year, specifically for Taranganba and Keppel Sands.
“This success highlights the Council's commitment to enhancing the local walking network and improving community access and mobility around the Shire,” Cr Mather said.
Infrastructure Standing Committee Co-Chair, Councillor Rhodes Watson said accessibility for all abilities was a priority when designing the Walking Network Plan.
“Improvements to the Shire’s walking path network, in conjunction with the rollout of the Principal Cycle Network, will improve universal access and safety while encouraging physical activity in the area,” Cr Watson said.
“This endorsement will allow Council to prioritise footpath projects that deliver the best outcomes for the community and ensure value for money.
“It will also enable Council to apply for infrastructure delivery grants to fund the design and construction of these priority projects.”
Plans are also currently being designed for the shared pathway that ends at Wildin Way at Mulambin, to be extended to Bluewater Boulevard at the southern end of Mulambin as part of the Principal Cycle Network.
Council is also currently in the planning and design phase for a shared path along Scenic Highway at Mulambin and Kinka.
This is part of a broader vision to create a continuous connection between Emu Park and Yeppoon.