Council delivers scenic pathway to boost active travel opportunities

Exercise enthusiasts across the Redlands Coast will be better connected and able to enjoy picturesque bushland with the planned delivery of a new active pathway project in Thornlands.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the West Thornlands Active Pathway Link was part of Council’s vision to provide safer, more accessible pathway routes across Redlands Coast.

“The $1.15 million West Thornlands Active Pathway Link project, jointly funded by Redland City Council and the Queensland Government, supports Council’s 2020 Redlands Coast Transport Strategy to improve the city’s active transport network,” Cr Williams said.

“Council is committed to ensuring the community has access to safe active transport opportunities at Thornlands and across Redlands Coast, and this project forms part of that plan.

“Beginning at Thornlands’ Congreve Crescent, north of the Kinross Estate, the 1.3km long, 2.5 to 3m wide shared pathway will run adjacent to the eastern outskirts of the Weippin Street Conservation Area.

“The pathway will continue along South Street and end at Wellington Street, creating connectivity within the city’s active pathway network and connecting the local community with key destinations, including places of employment, schools and recreation.

“It will be a welcome and necessary addition to the active pathway network across Redlands Coast.”

Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said she was pleased the project also considered ongoing community concerns regarding speeding and hooning in the area.

“As part of the project, Council will construct traffic islands with crossing points along South Street, at Swallow Street and Lorikeet Drive,” Cr McKenzie said.

“These crossings will aim to reduce vehicle speeds and hooning activity while providing pedestrians, cyclists and other users with a more direct route with improved visibility.”

The West Thornlands Active Pathway Link forms part of the Queensland Government’s Principal Cycle Network Plan and is proudly supported by its Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

The project is expected to be completed by early April 2023, subject to weather conditions.