What’s wheelie good about our new Bike Plan?

Some may think not a week goes by when a new policy or plan is developed by Council, the reality is our community is the forefront of all we do, and your feedback is always welcomed.

On that note, this week Council adopted the new Northern Beaches Bike Plan – the overall direction to provide connections across our community bringing together our residential areas, major transport hubs, and key destinations. Design work has already commenced on the next sections to connect the nearby communities with transport services in Brookvale and Manly and delivering two missing sections of the bike network in the Frenchs Forest area.

We asked local resident and keen cyclist John Watkins what he thinks about the new Plan.

1.         What are your overall thoughts on the new Northern Beaches Bike Plan? 

It’s a big step forward. It’s terrific to see Council hear the message from the community and seek to use proven world best practice design.

2.         What do you think about the approach of developing both a Safe Cycling Network and a Road Cycling Network?

I’m very pleased this plan takes into account the different needs of those who bike for fitness and fun and those who just want a healthy alternative to the car to get around. Not everyone is the same.  Some are OK with lycra, others prefer normal clothes. Both have a right to be safe.

3.         Do you think the proposals within the Bike Plan will help increase people choosing to ride vs taking their car?

Definitely. Development of an integrated Safe Cycling Network connecting with where people want to go will make it feasible to leave the car at home for all sorts of short trips. For things like groceries, visiting friends, getting to school, and dining out using healthy transport will become attractive. At present, this is too challenging for many because of safety fears.

4.         Do you think the Bike Plan will lead to a safer environment for cycling?

A good plan is essential, and we have a good plan. It helps us see the steps to get us where we need to go, but on its own, it’s just words on a page. What will lead to a safer environment for people who want to use healthy transport is following through and delivering on the plan.

5.         What do you think is the most important thing to come from developing the Bike Plan?

The massive community demand for the safe bicycle network that came out of the consultation process was hugely encouraging.

The comments showed people are tired of being stuck in traffic and having to dodge speeding drivers in their residential streets. They want practical alternatives for getting where they want to go without having to use a car and fight for parking or being dictated to by bus timetables. The humble bicycle solves those problems and the community has told us they want those options now especially now with Covid-19.

6.         What would be the project that would be of most benefit to your daily commute?

My own commute. Most of my trip to and from the Sydney CBD is pretty good, but the bit through Manly Vale via Condamine Street can be sketchy. I’d also like to see a separated cycleway for those needing to get from Seaforth to Northern Beaches Hospital via Wakehurst Parkway. If we could fix those, it would help a lot of people.