28 October 2009 - Cycleway Grant Welcomed

The Federal Government grant of nearly $1m to help fund almost 10kms of cycleway around Coffs Creek has been welcomed by Council. 

"This is fantastic news for the community, which has made very clear its support for more cycleways throughout the local government area," said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades. "Providing cycleways linking key areas of the city is also a focus for Council, which works hard to promote Coffs Harbour as a centre for healthy living. 

"Plus this will create an opportunity to open up one of the area's most beautiful waterways and culturally significant areas as a potential tourist attraction in its own right," he said. 

The funds of $909,000 were provided under the Federal Government's Economic Stimulus Plan. The total cost of the project is $2m. As well as the grant, a further $1m has been provided for the cycleway through the generous donation of Barbara and the late Allen Hogbin. Council is actively seeking the $100,000 shortfall through other funding sources. 

The cycleway will run from the Pacific Highway in the central business district (CBD), down Coff Street, along the south side of the creek on the existing walkway route to the bridge over the waterway at Orlando Street and then back up to the city centre on the northern side of the creek. 

It will help link the CBD with some of the city's major tourist destinations - the Regional Botanic Garden, Pet Porpoise Pool, Jetty Beach and Park Beach. In addition, it will provide a new commuter route for residents who live in the Jetty area, but work in the CBD. 

The Aboriginal cultural importance of Coffs Creek will also be highlighted as part of the project and opportunities for Indigenous employment will be offered through the use of 'Repair to Country' teams in the cycleway's construction. 

"This has been a project that has been planned for many years and it's very pleasing to see it come to fruition," said Stephen Sawtell, Council's General Manager. 

"The cycleway will further enhance the city's reputation as a great place to live, work and visit. Having the involvement of the Aboriginal community in its construction and the interpretation of the cultural heritage of Coffs Creek is also a very important aspect," he said.  

Work on the construction of the Coffs Creek Cycleway is expected to begin in 2010.