Wandal Walking Network Plan endorsed for Rockhampton

Rockhampton Regional Council recently endorsed the Wandal Walking Network Plan developed in consultation with the Wandal community earlier this year.

The Wandal Walking Network Plan outlines preferred routes for implementing a connected, comfortable, direct, accessible and safe walking environment in Wandal.

The plan is funded 50% by the Queensland Government’s Walking Local Government Grants Program and 50% by Council.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services Mark Bailey said most Queenslanders walk in some form every day, whether it be for recreation, exercise or walking to public transport, work or school. We want walking to be the irresistible, clear choice for health, recreation and transport, particularly for short trips.

Minister Bailey added "Money invested in well planned infrastructure for people walking pays for itself in physical and mental health benefits, reduced traffic congestion, economic development and socially connected communities.

“That's why we developed the Walking Local Government Grants Program, part of the Queensland Government’s more than $328 million commitment from 2023–24 to 2026–27 towards active transport initiatives, including bikeways, shared paths and bridges across the state.”

Local State Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the government wanted to actively encourage healthier lifestyles, and the easiest way to do that is by walking.

“We all know it can get pretty hot in Rocky, so these grants will help to ensure comfortable and safe walking routes around our city,” O’Rourke said.

“Thanks to the Wandal community for their input and it will be exciting to see the plan come to life.”

Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith said this is Council’s first Walking Network Plan, which will form part of the region’s broader Walking and Cycling Strategy.

Smith added “We want to encourage more people to walk as their preferred method of transport and recreation, and a Walking Network Plan will help us do just that.

“With community input, the Walking Network Plan indicates the most appropriate walking routes within Wandal and the infrastructure required to allow people to safely and comfortably use those routes.

“Now the plan has been endorsed, it will form part of Council's Walking and Cycling Strategy.

“The Walking Network Plan contributes to the planning stage of the strategy and will assist with how and when walking and cycling infrastructure will be developed.

"Having the Wandal Walking Network Plan in place will mean the implementation of infrastructure will be easier.

“Funding is actively being sort to implement walking and cycling infrastructure like the Wandal Walking Network, across the region."

For more information about the strategy