Cycling will be road-free by 2030 under a Canberra Liberals Government

 

As part of our vision to ensure a better, more sustainable and future-ready transport network, a Canberra Liberals Government will make the ACT’s entire cycle path network road-free by 2030.  

The Canberra Liberals want to future-proof the Bush Capital to make it the best place to live, work and raise a family. That’s why a Canberra Liberals Government will connect all town centres and major employment hubs with dedicated, off-road cycle paths to ensure a safer, less stressful cycling journey. 

Our plan will improve the safety of cyclists, and encourage cycling as a transport alternative for shorter to medium distance journeys, reducing traffic congestion on roads.  

A Canberra Liberals Government will also deliver $5 million to improve cycling facilities at transport interchanges and other major stops. This will include increasing secure bicycle storage facilities and change rooms to encourage more Canberrans to use cycling in their public transport journey. The Canberra Liberals will continue to support the expansion of electric bikes and scooter schemes, and will work with companies to ensure the best outcomes for Canberra commuters. 

The Leader of the Canberra Liberals Alistair Coe said by lowering taxes and stopping the flow of Canberrans from moving across the border, a Canberra Liberals Government can afford to deliver better local services like well connected bike paths.  

“Only a Canberra Liberals Government will deliver lower taxes and better services,” Mr Coe said.  

“By making Canberra more affordable, and an attractive place for people to live, work and raise a family, a Canberra Liberals Government can afford to deliver a better, more sustainable and future-ready transport network,” Mr Coe said.  

The Shadow Minister for Transport Candice Burch said there are significant gaps in Canberra’s current bike path network. 

“Labor’s disjointed, ad hoc approach to our cycle network makes it very difficult for cyclists to complete a journey without using major roads,” Miss Burch said.   

“Our plan to create an entire cycle network independent of roads by 2030 will enable more Canberrans to take up cycling as a viable form of transport. 

“This is not about forcing cyclists off our roads, it’s about giving cyclists choice in their travel journeys and improving safety. 

“Canberra has many avid cyclists and I’m confident many more people will be inspired to cycle if we remove the need for cyclists to use major roads,” Miss Burch said.  

The Shadow Minister for Urban Services Nicole Lawder said a safer, better connected cycle network would encourage many more women and vulnerable people to embrace cycling.  

“Many cyclists, or people who are considering cycling, don’t feel very safe riding on major roads, alongside passing cars,” Ms Lawder said. 

“Ensuring a road-free cycle network will mitigate the safety risk of passing cars making cycling safer and more appealing to vulnerable commuters,” Ms Lawder said.