Community feedback helps refine cycling link design
Published on 11 July 2022
Council will progress the proposal for a 1.4km cycling connection linking two of the City’s major trails, Scotchmans Creek and Djerring in Oakleigh, but will undertake further investigation into issues raised by community engagement held earlier this year.
Council officers will now investigate the concerns raised by the community and further refine the proposal, including alternative design options and route alignment, to ensure any changes provide the best outcomes for safety and functionality.
A concept proposal was presented for community feedback between 18 March and 1 May, using a letter drop of 795 properties in the local area, the Shape Monash website and contact with Council officers. More than 110 contributions were received.
Responses were generally supportive of a north-south cycling link between these two major trails, but raised issues, including safety concerns for local residents, drivers and cyclists.
The original concept proposal combines five separate components to complete the connection:
- Atkinson Street trial demonstration cycleway (between Dandenong and Atherton roads)
- Hanover Street dedicated cycleway
- Burlington Street to Djerring Trail link
- Atkinson Street/Dandenong Road intersection cycleway crossing
- Scotchmans Creek Trail to Dandenong Road.
The Atkinson Street section will require a reduction in the number of existing car parking spaces, from 46 spaces to approximately 22 spaces, on the east side of Atkinson Street.
Monash Mayor Stuart James was pleased that the community had embraced the consultation process for the project so enthusiastically.
“The time and effort of each person who made a submission to the engagement process is greatly appreciated,” Cr James said. “Overall, the responses received were thorough and well-considered.
“It’s encouraging to see that there is general support for the proposal for a protected cycling connection between the Scotchmans Creek Trail and the Djerring Trail, but we acknowledge that there are genuine concerns raised by both cyclists and road users.
“We’ll now go back and investigate these issues and refine some of our designs before a further round of consultation with stakeholders.”
More information is available at Council’s dedicated project website Scotchmans Creek Trail to Djerring Trail cycling connection | Shape Monash
Media Contact: Jo Robertson 0418 391 979 or Joanne.Robertson@monash.vic.gov.au