New cycling trail could connect Port Douglas and Mossman
BIKE TRACK
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DOUGLAS Shire residents will learn on June 19 whether a Principal Cycle Network Plan between Port Douglas and Mossman will be a key item in the 2018-19 budget.
According to a Council spokesperson, the Douglas Shire Council is investigating the possibility of including a funding submission in the 2018/19 budget as part of the State Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.
The Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program helps local governments to deliver best practice, high quality and safe cycling infrastructure and facilities.
Local governments with a Principal Cycle Network Plan are eligible to apply for a 50% grant for the design and/or construction of cycling infrastructure that contributes to the delivery of their regional cycle network.
Angela Johnson, owner of Bike Shop Hire Port Douglas, said it would be “fabulous and most welcomed” if this went ahead.
“I know this has been in the pipeline for some time and if this goes ahead, it would open the way for cyclists to travel this road without fear,” said Johnson.
“I cycle that stretch of road twice a week and I know how dangerous it is and I am an experienced road bike rider. It’s for this reason we do not allow anyone who rents from us to ride the road unless they are extremely experienced.
“If this reaches fruition, it will be fabulous as so many will benefit from it,” said Johnson.
SEE THE CONCEPT PLAN HERE
The proposed principal cycle route begins at the intersection of Captain Cook Highway and Bow Street, Mossman.
It heads in a southerly direction, along the Captain Cook Highway to Port Douglas. At the intersection of Captain Cook Highway and Port Douglas Road, the route follows Port Douglas Road to the Port Douglas centre, where it then follows Macrossan Street, terminating at the intersection of Macrossan Street and Wharf Street.
In conjunction with the State Government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, the link is part of a prioritised corridor in the Cairns Regional Council section of the Principal Cycle Network Plan for Far North Queensland.
It will connect two district regional activity centres of Mossman and Port Douglas to provide a connection for residents to these centres as well as catering for tourists and recreational users.
In a statement, the Department of Transport and Main Roads said the plans are intended to support, guide and inform the planning, design and construction of the transport network.
“The Queensland Government has worked closely with local governments to develop the Principal Cycle Network Plans and Priority Route Maps to guide the delivery of a connected and cohesive cycle network across Queensland.
SEE THE CONCEPT PLAN HERE
“The Principal Cycle Network Plans and Priority Route Maps reflect a ‘one network’ approach to cycle network planning and have been formally endorsed by all local governments and the Department of Transport and Main Roads.”
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