VCAT decision to bring Bay Trail closer to completion

10 October 2018

The long-awaited Bay Trail project is soon to be one step, or 2.4 kilometres, closer to completion following a VCAT decision announced last week. 

 VCAT has approved the section of the Bay Trail between Mentone Life Saving Club and Rennison Street in Parkdale, with conditions of the Planning Permit requiring more protection for the native foreshore vegetation.

 Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said that Council is delighted that VCAT has upheld Council’s plans for this much-anticipated project to go ahead.

 “This project has been talked about for more than 20 years. Council is more committed than ever to finish the missing link of the Bay Trail which will ultimately connect paths all the way from Port Melbourne to Seaford,” said Cr Staikos.

 In her decision, VCAT Member Jeanette Rickards found that the Bay Trail stage 2 plans will: 

Cr Staikos said the plan strikes a balance between motorists, road cyclists, path users and the environment, while providing plenty of car parking and protecting the most environmentally significant areas of vegetation.

“While I can appreciate that some people are concerned about the changes, let me be clear, our plan, which retains the existing number of traffic lanes, meets all VicRoads and Australian safety standards; is supported by Bicycle Network Victoria and Cycling Victoria; provides plenty of parking and protects the most environmentally significant vegetation.”

“It was designed to standards approved by the last three Victorian Roads Ministers and has been fully assessed by independent traffic consultants. The concept plans have been signed-off by VicRoads.”

“Now that this matter has been resolved, we will keep the community informed about details around when construction may occur,” said Cr Staikos.