THE Winda Woppa Association is looking to garner community support for integrated cycle and pedestrian walkways across Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.

Ken Garrard, President of the Association, believes the twin towns could benefit from a five year plan to interconnect the community.

“Off-road (where possible) cycle and walkways across the villages would allow safe passage between all the tourist attractions and retail and commercial centres,” Ken said.

“The outcomes of such a network would be the ability to cycle or walk in safety from anywhere in Tea Gardens or Hawks Nest.

It’s an ambitious plan, the cycle and walkways connecting the areas from Winda Woppa to Mungo Brush, from the Singing Bridge to the Industrial area at Tea Gardens to the Lions Club Lookout at the top of the hill and all points in between.

Mr Garrard believes there would be major benefits.

“Increased attractiveness to tourists and residents, increased general fitness, less traffic on our roads and lower incidence of drink driving offences.”

Mr Garrard says there is State Government funding for such projects.

But the project would also require a commitment from Council and a broad section of the community.

“We would also need Council to support the extension of the pedestrian/cycleway network in approving any new subdivisions and developments.”

“If you do not support this proposal, please let me know what your objections are, otherwise, please put your support behind it.”

Ken Garrard can be contacted on 0407 703 676.

 

By Margie TIERNEY