Yarra Ranges Council has released the final draft of an enterprising plan for a future trails and paths network across the hills in Melbourne’s outer east.
There are currently four new paths and trails under construction, 13 identified for upgrades and 31 new routes or missing links on the list.
When delivered, the network would be one of the most extensive active transport webs in the nation, with exciting biking and walking opportunities at every turn.
Yarra Ranges has ambitions to become a major destination for active outdoor activities for the major population centre of Melbourne, just an afternoon’s bike ride away.
"Paths and trails are essential components of the municipality’s open spaces, streetscapes and road network,” the council said.
"These linear movement corridors connect places and people, and they benefit the community by encouraging active lifestyles and outdoor exercise, promoting sustainable modes of transport, providing tourism outcomes and stimulating local businesses.
"Yarra Ranges Council aims to establish and maintain a high-quality network of paths and trails that are used by residents and visitors to the municipality.
"The network will assist people to get from A to B within their neighbourhood, provide opportunities for recreation and engage relaxation and encourage people to reconnect with nature."
The Draft Paths and Trails Plan 2025–2035 is open for comment until 8 August here.
The first draft of the plan had more than 140 submissions during the recent engagement phase.
The estimated costs for the implementation programs include: upgrades, $10 million; crossings, $5 million; and new or missing links, approximately $39.9 million.
The plan contains information on how the council will prioritise development of the network into the future.
The Paths and Trails Plan will be reviewed annually and updated every 10 years.
The plan does not contain on-street bike facilities. These are identified in the council's Integrated Transport Strategy.
For details and maps on all the paths in this strategy download the draft document here.
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