Break O’Day Council has released a draft structure plan for Beaumaris and Scamander guided by initial consultation that found better walking and cycling paths were high on the community’s wish-list.
Consultants ERA Advisory have put the plan together following a public comment period and workshops held in the middle of this year.
Encouraging active and sustainable transport was one of five overarching principles that guided development of the plan:
“Develop a connected network of pathways within and between Scamander and Beaumaris that link key destinations, including shops, services, beaches and public open spaces. Pathways should be safe, well lit, accessible and have appropriate signage to encourage use by locals and visitors.”
The plan recommends actions the council can take in the key areas of housing, industry, social infrastructure and services, environment and connectivity.
To cater to people wanting easier walking and riding connections around and between the two towns, specific recommendations are:
C1.1 Work with the Department of State Growth to install traffic calming devices at key locations on Scamander Avenue (Tasman Highway).
C1.2 Investigate through the Department of State Growth whether safe crossings can be installed at key locations on Scamander Avenue (Tasman Highway).
C3.1 Investigate shared use trail opportunities through land behind Scamander that is owned by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania.
C3.2 Improve pathway connections along the Tasman Highway in Scamander and Beaumaris to ensure continuity and accessibility for all users, and to encourage use of active transport.
C3.3 Identify key shared pathways and walking routes and ensure they are well lit, accessible and have shelters, to support and encourage use.
C3.4 Investigate feasibility for new pathways and walking trails, including: — Along the Scamander River edge — A boardwalk through the salt marsh, alongside the Scamander River — Yarmouth Creek nature walking trail — Important pedestrian connections — A walkway under the Scamander River bridge — Pathway continuation north of Beaumaris.
C4.1 Break O’Day Council to invest in public bicycle parking infrastructure and encourage end-of-trip facilities to support cyclists.
C5.2 Encourage developers to include public walkways and connections through subdivisions to improve permeability and encourage use of active transport.