Brimbank

Cycling and Walking

Strategy Update

1.1 Background

5

1.2 What’s been done to date

5

1.3 Aims and objectives of revised strategy

7

1.4 Recent strategies and initiatives

7

2.1 Brimbank Bicycle User Group (BrimBUG)

10

2.2 Online Survey

10

2.3 My Time Cycling

12

3.1 Existing gravel trails

13

3.2 Existing off-road shared paths

13

3.3 Existing on-road cycle network

13

3.4 Proposed off-road cycle network

14

3.5 Proposed Main Road Routes

14

3.6 Proposed Local Connector Routes

14

3.7 Proposed Bridges

14

3.8 Existing Connection to Adjoining Municipalities

15

3.9 Proposed Future Connection to Adjoining Municipalities

15

3.10 Existing Walking Circuit Paths

15

3.11 Proposed Walking Circuit Paths

15

4.1 Local Connector Routes

17

4.2 Special Projects

18

4.3 Directional Signage

18

4.4 Town Centre Pedestrian Wayfinding Signage

19

4.5 Pedestrian Circuit Paths

20

4.6 End of Trip Treatment to Parks and Reserves

21

4.7 Arts & Culture Trail

22

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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4.8 Cycling and Walking Network Map on Council Website

22

5.1 Prioritisation of shared path schemes

28

5.2 Criteria

28

Table 1: Examples of local connector route treatments

24

Table 2: Example of Scheme Analysis by Weighted Criteria

28

Table 3: Prioritised bicycle network list

31

Table 4: Summary of Actions

37

Map 1: What’s been done to date

6

Map 2: Revised cycling and walking network map

16

Map 3: Prioritisation of shared path network

30

Image 1: Example of Brimbank’s New Directional Finger Signage

19

Image 2: Example of Sunshine Town Centre Pedestrian Way Finding Signage 20

Image 3: Example of Austroads Path Treatment at end of trip

21

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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Brimbank City Council adopted the Cycling and Walking Strategy (Strategy) in 2008 with

the aim of making cycling and walking more attractive throughout the municipality. The

Strategy laid out a framework for a well-integrated strategic infrastructure network that

has guided Council thus far in transforming the cycling and walking environment in

Brimbank.

Since the adoption of the Strategy, Council has constructed around 20km of off-road

trails, and around 21km of on-road cycle routes as well as many cycle related

improvements, such as, directional way finding signage at a cost of around $11m. The

initial implementation of the Strategy focussed on connecting our creek network via

recreational trails. The community has benefitted from this approach with cycling and

walking participation constantly on the increase as evident from the ‘Super Tuesday’ bike

counts. These routes have opened up nature based journeys alongside creeks, gullies

and reserves that were once inaccessible to the public.

It’s been eight (8) years since the adoption of the Strategy and a lot of exciting new

changes have occurred in Brimbank during this time. Such changes include Plan

Melbourne’s recognition of an emerging National Employment Cluster (NEC) in Sunshine

and St Albans town centres. The urban transformation this will bring, presents Council

with a fresh new opportunity to influence the future of the cycling and walking amongst

these growth areas and more regionally.

Transport emissions now account for 18% of our community’s greenhouse emissions.

This updated Strategy will be instrumental in enabling residents and visitors to choose

more sustainable, healthier modes of travel and increase the liveability of our City. The

Strategy contributes to achieving Council’s vision for “a City that is adaptive and resilient

to changes in short and long term climatic conditions” (Brimbank Greenhouse Reduction

Strategy 2013-2023).

Council undertook consultation with the public via an online public survey and through

workshops with two (2) key cycling groups in Brimbank: The Brimbank Bicycle User

Group (BrimBUG) & My Time Cycling (A women’s cycling group in Brimbank). The

consultation process highlighted a number of opportunities and innovative new ideas for

the future development of the cycling and walking network. One of the key initiatives

within the document is ‘Local Connector Routes’. These routes would be very local in

nature (routes that can connect people from where they live to their local shops, park or

school, for example). Typically these routes could be constructed on ‘back streets’ with

low traffic volumes, providing safe and effective local connections for very little cost. This

network of ‘Local Connector Routes’ would also connect into the wider more strategic

arterial routes, essentially acting as ‘veins’. Some other key new features of the

document include:



Town centre way finding and directional signage treatments



Special projects which includes the ‘Ardeer Green Community Hub’ an active cycling

destination & the ‘Upper Stony Creek Transformation Project’ and associated shared

recreational trails



Pedestrian Circuit Paths in park upgrades– What’s been done to date and future

implementation, and



Art & Cultural Trail – A trail that showcases the art works and history on offer in

Sunshine & St Albans

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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The updated Strategy outlines 32 strategic network improvements which have been

categorised into High, Medium and Low priority. The top eight (8) highest priority

network improvements have been broken into 12 sub-routes, costing approximately

$9 million.

The remainder of the routes have also been indicatively costed to provide Council with a

clear plan for implementation of this network over the next 7-10 years. Several key

actions are also recommended to assist Council staff in the planning, budgeting and

implementation of the revised cycling and walking network.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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In 2008 Council commissioned PBAI Australia to develop a Cycling and Walking Strategy

for Brimbank City Council. The intention of the Strategy was to provide a framework to

help guide investment, improve safety and support walking and cycling in Brimbank. The

Strategy also provided an implementation plan with a list of prioritised actions over a 15

year period.

In the eight (8) years since the adoption of the Strategy, Brimbank has seen significant

change. The recent construction of major rail infrastructure projects has re-shaped our

transport networks, transport hubs and town centres. New strategies and initiatives have

emerged that will help strengthen the future of cycling and walking in our municipality,

and the ongoing urban transformation of Sunshine and St Albans town centres will

continue to influence the need for sustainable transport in and around these hubs.

In light of these changes, an update of the Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy is

required. It is intended that this update reflect these changes along with key new

consultation findings. It is proposed that this document serves to provide a revised

framework to guide investment over the next 5-7 years. It is conceivable that during this

timeframe many of remaining routes/network gaps will be completed.

Since the adoption of the Strategy, Council has been implementing a network of cycling

and walking infrastructure throughout the municipality. Since 2008 Council has spent

$11 million constructing approximately 20km of Off-Road trails and 21km of On-Road

cycle routes. Council has also constructed 13 pedestrian circuit paths in our park

network as part of the implementation of the ‘Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan

2008’. Some of the key projects to date include:

Kororoit Creek Trail (Buckingham Reserve – Federation Trail, Brooklyn) 2.6Km

Kororoit Creek Trail (Isabella Williams Memorial Reserve – Millbank Drive, Deer Park)

3km

Sunshine Trail (Sunshine Station – Tottenham Station) 3.2km

M80 Bridge – Stradbroke Drive (St Albans Transmission Easement) 1.9km

Forrest Street Trail (Forrest Street) 2.5km

Taylors Creek Trail (Mc Cubbin Drive North) 1.6km

Taylors Creek Trail (Burrowye Crescent) 1.8km

West Sunshine on-road Trail (Derby St– WRRP Fitzgerald Road) 4km

M80 Bridge – Duke Street on-road cycle trail, Sunshine North 3.3km

Devonshire Road on-road cycle trail, Sunshine 1km

Monash Sreet on-road cycle trail, Sunshine 1km

500m Circuit path as Buckingham Reserve, Sunshine West

450m Circuit path at Isabella Williams Memorial Reserve, Deer Park, and

350m Circuit path at Calder Rise Reserve, Keilor.

Refer to

The aim of the revised Strategy is to provide a fresh new look at cycling and walking

throughout Brimbank and understand what Council can do to better support and

promote this now and into the future.

To achieve these aims, the objectives are:

Revise the Strategy to clearly identify the existing and proposed trail network

Consult with the community, rider groups and key stakeholders to develop a revised

network that reflects public needs

Review any new relevant Local & State cycling and walking strategies and initiatives

Develop a plan of prioritised routes and a schedule to assist in developing this

network

Develop innovative new guidelines and treatments for ‘local connector routes’, and

Further implement guidelines and treatments for directional and way finding signage.

Since the adoption of the Strategy in 2008 several new Local and State government

strategic initiatives have been adopted. These initiatives present fresh new opportunities

to deliver well planned high quality routes within our municipality, which connect more

broadly and strategically across the western metropolitan region as a whole. Proposed

routes within these new documents will be reflected in the revised Strategy. Relevant

new strategic initiatives include:

Plan Melbourne identifies Sunshine as an emerging National Employment Cluster (NEC).

This cluster includes the Sunshine and St Albans activity centres, Victoria University

St Albans and Sunshine campuses, Sunshine Hospital and Western Centre for Health

Research and Education.

The plan recognizes the potential this employment cluster has for growth given its

central positioning in Western Melbourne and its strategic connections to major roads,

rail and future Airport Rail Links.

The plan identifies several key cycling routes within these clusters including: Sunshine –

St Albans Rail Trail, Kororoit Creek Trail and M80 trail among others.

Plan Melbourne also mentions cycling and walking more generally in chapters ‘A more

connected Melbourne’ and ‘Liveable Communities and Neighbourhoods’. A key vision

discussed here is the ’20 minute neighbourhood’. The 20 minute neighbourhood is about

people being able to access shops, services, schools and transport at a local level via

well connected cycling and walking paths. “20-minute neighbourhoods help improve

health and wellbeing, reduce travel costs and traffic congestion, and reduce vehicle

emissions. They also create opportunities to provide a greater diversity of housing

choices close to where goods and services are located” (Plan Melbourne 2014).

West trails also known as The Western Regional Trails Strategic Plan is “a strategic

project seeking to improve the quality and usage of regional trails in Western

Metropolitan Melbourne” (West Trails Draft Report v5 2015). The project study area

comprises six (6) Local Councils, being Brimbank City Council, Hobsons Bay City Council,

Maribyrnong City Council, Melton City Council, City of Moonee Valley and Wyndham City

Council.

The document identifies a total of 19 existing and proposed trails that meet the

definitions of a regional trail developed within this study. The ultimate completion of

these trails will provide an integrated network which increases connectivity between the

above municipalities. Trails identified in this document include eight (8) within Brimbank.

These are: The M80 trail, Stony Creek Trail, Maribyrnong River Trail, Taylors Creek Trail,

Steel Creek Trail, Sydenham Rail Trail, RRL Trail and the Wellness Trail.

The PBN is a network of proposed and existing bicycle routes that provide access to

major destinations in the Melbourne metropolitan area. The primary purposes of the PBN

are to guide VicRoads investment in bicycle facilities that support cycling and transport

(Principal Bicycle Network Fact Sheet 2012).

VicRoads established the PBN as a bicycle infrastructure planning tool in 1994. A review

of this network was completed in 2012 and was undertaken in partnership with Local

Councils in Melbourne, the Department of Transport, Parks Victoria and Bicycle Network

Victoria.

BPR are a network of routes that are a subset of the PBN. These routes have been

identified as providing priority access for cyclists into key destinations in a way that

complements and supports the requirements of VicRoads’ “SmartRoads” framework

(Principal Bicycle Network Fact Sheet 2012).

SCC are a recent addition to bicycle network planning in Metropolitan Melbourne.

Identification of SCC is part of the initiative in Plan Melbourne to ‘Support Walking and

Cycling in Central Melbourne’.

They are corridors developed to improve cycling to and around major activity centres in

Metropolitan Melbourne. SCC are a subset of the PBN. They will typically be selected on

the basis of providing links to a National Employment Cluster or a Major Activity Centre

and are routes that cater for the highest, or potentially highest, cycling volumes

(VicRoads Website – Bicycle Network Planning).

Western Metropolitan Council’s including Brimbank worked with VicRoads over two

sessions in 2015 to develop a draft of the Western Sub- Region SCC network. Twenty

(20) Western Subregion SCC routes were developed through these sessions, eight (8) of

which are within Brimbank. These include: W03 Melton Rail Corridor (Sunshine –

Melton), W04 Sunbury Rail Corridor (Sunshine – Sunbury), W08 St Albans – Caroline

Springs, W09 Delahey to Melton, W10 M80 Ring Road Trail, W11 Deer Park –

Sydenham), W12 Point Cook – Deer Park & W20 Sydenham – Keilor East.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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Council has recently completed an Urban Forest Strategy for the municipality which was

adopted in 2016. The aim of the Urban Forest Strategy is to increase canopy cover in

Brimbank from approximately 6% in 2016 to 30% by 2046. The Urban Forest Strategy

also aims to assist in health and well-being, active living and connecting communities via

green corridors.

It is intended that the Cycling and Walking Strategy ties in with the Urban Forest

Strategy, whereby any planned new cycling and walking infrastructure incorporates tree

planting and /or revegetation as part of these works. Planting more trees along our

cycling and walking corridors will make these areas more attractive, provide shade and

encourage greater outdoor participation.

Council’s Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan (CBP) was adopted in 2008 at the same

time the Cycling and Walking Strategy was adopted. These two (2) strategies were

implemented in in tandem and initially focus on connecting parks and reserves along

creek networks via recreational trails. Two of Brimbank’s Flagship Parks; Buckingham

Reserve & Isabella Williams Memorial Reserve are located along Kororoit creek and have

been constructed in this manner.

In 2016 Council adopted an update to the CBP. The continued implementation of this

CBP document will further strengthen connections with the Strategy by providing a

network of parks as destinations/stopovers or points of interest along the journey. The

park network will also assist in providing facilities of use to walkers and cyclists, such as

shade, picnic shelters, drink fountains, toilets and cycle racks.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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As part of the review of the Strategy the Brimbank community, stakeholders and

Brimbank rider groups were consulted. This consultation involved workshops with two

separate rider user groups, Brimbank Bicycle User Group (Brimbug) & My Time Cycling

plus an online survey questionnaire.

Council conducted a consultation session with Brimbug on 28 January 2016 at the Keilor

Council Offices after hours. At the consultation three (3) main ideas were workshopped:

1. High and Medium Priority routes

2. General Issues with Existing Network, and

3. Innovative new ideas.

Through the workshop Council was able to identify eleven (11) High and ten (10)

medium & low priority routes. The majority of these routes have been incorporated into

the Revised Cycling and Walking Network Map shown in

.

Brimbug highlighted three (3) main concerns with the existing network. These included:



Lack of Wayfinding & Signage



The need for more traffic calming on local roads, and



Existing on-road line marking that isn’t properly considered for cyclist’s safety, for

example, line-marking that ends before roundabouts and intersections.

Council had a short brainstorming session with Brimbug to explore innovative new ideas.

This session was very useful and revealed the need for more local connections. A lot of

this feedback inspired the thinking behind the idea of ‘Local Connecter Routes’, which is

a major component of this document and is discussed in more detail in section

of

this document along with treatment examples in

.

The online survey received eighty four (84) responses from the public. The survey

consisted of six (6) questions including written responses as required. Some of the key

findings from the survey include the following:



The majority of respondents heard about the survey through facebook



Most respondents had noticed the network improvements that had taken place over

recent years. The Sunshine to Tottenham path and the Forrest Street Path were the

key improvements mentioned



52% of respondents preferred to see a moderate network of off-road shared paths

compared to 33% preferring a vaster network of on-road paths. The remaining 15 %

preferred to generally see both along with other infrastructure such as lighting, bike

cages and more bicycle racks, and

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

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

There was no clear preference as to where the highest priority connections should be,

with preferences fairly equally split amongst education, public transport, town

centres, adjoining municipalities and connections along creeks and to parks and

reserves.

Routes that respondents see as a priority include the following:

Respondents

specifically mentioned that this route had not been properly resolved and there

was still a missing gap between Anderson Road and Sunshine Station

Some

respondents felt that connections within the Sunshine Town Centre itself where

missing/ not properly resolved e.g. Devonshire Road on-road bike lane disappears

before reaching the town centre

These include a small

section near the Wright St bridge & large unfinished section near the Deer Park

Hotel, and

Respondents felt the following should be incorporated into the revised Strategy:

This

was the highest recorded response. Several respondents suggested that Council

should not be afraid to take road space away from cars. Also any works that are

to be done should include safe separation e.g. physical barriers

It was suggested that

when planning a route the full journey should be considered & designed

appropriately. Many existing shared paths have missing gaps or have sections

that require the cyclists to cross the road back and forth within a short distance,

such as, the Forrest St shared path at the Kororoit Creek Bridge

Feedback

suggested that Council should focus on connectivity of the existing network

before commencing new projects. Many feel that the existing network is not

properly connected and has many missing gaps (some quite small) and is lacking

in clear directional signage/linemarking etc, and

Some respondents have suggested that the

updated Strategy be more holistic in approach and tie in with other strategies

such as the Urban Forrest Strategy. In this approach new and existing trails could

be planted out with trees to provide shade and help beautify trails, making them

more attractive to ride.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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My Time Cycling (MTC) is a women’s riding group with membership based in Brimbank.

Council conducted an informal consultation session with MTC on 1 May 2016 at a coffee

shop in Cairnlea Central where nine (9) members attended. At the consultation several

topics were discussed. The main issues included: the lack of connectivity around

Sunshine Town Centre and surrounds, general safety concerns, facilities and signage and

Council website updates.

MTC identified several connectivity issues in and around the Sunshine Town Centre.

Some of the key issues included:



Forrest Street Path (Crossing from Anderson Road into Sunshine Town Centre)



Sunshine Station (No cycling allowed across elevated concourse)



Limited cycling provision between West Sunshine – Sunshine & Sunshine North, and



Dangerous crossing from Albion Station North over St Albans Road overpass.

Members of the MTC expressed concerns with low lighting levels along paths at night. As

women the felt this made them feel more vulnerable, especially in areas where they

would be required to get off their bikes and walk for short distances. MTC also felt that

physical buffers were required along many of the on-road cycle routes as they felt

uncomfortable riding on busy roads next to high speed heavy traffic.

MTC mentioned that it would be good for Council to provide more cycle parking and

other facilities such as pumps at key destinations such as town centres and stations. It

was also noted that directional signage around Brimbank was often missing and

confusing and needed to be more legible and consistent.

It was suggested that it would be handy for residents to access a cycling and walking

map on the Council Website. This could be regularly updated to provide residents with

up to date information and could include details of upcoming projects with expected start

and completion dates.

Overall the feedback from the different consultation methods has proved extremely

valuable in determining priorities, ideas and issues with the existing Brimbank cycling

and walking network. All of the ideas and feedback noted here, were analysed and

processed in the development of this updated Strategy.

The overall Brimbank Cycling and Walking Network Map has been updated to reflect

recent infrastructure changes, new relevant strategies and initiatives through

consultation with the rider groups and via the online survey. Some of the naming

conventions and route types in the legend have also been updated as outlined in the sub

headings below.

There are a number of trails throughout Brimbank that are off-road, yet are not sealed

(bitumen or concrete). It is important to distinguish between these two for the purpose

of this document to avoid any future confusion. Existing gravel trails will be assessed as

to whether they are considered high use enough to be sealed during the life of this

document. For example, the existing section of Taylors Creek trail between Kings Road

and Sunshine Avenue has merit for an upgrade based on consultation feedback and

popularity for jogging, walking and cycling.



Work towards assessing existing individual gravel trails to identify if they should

be upgraded to sealed paths. Update the internal working Network Map to reflect

these changes and assist in Council budget forecasting.

Existing off-road shared trails are defined as sealed trails (concrete or asphalt). These

paths are generally 2.5 metres wide or more as per Austroad Guidelines for Shared

paths. It is noted that some of the paths currently indicated as off-road shared paths do

not fully comply with Austroads standards in terms of line marking and signage, however

it is proposed that these paths be upgraded over the next 7-10 years.



Conduct a full assessment of existing shared paths. Create a schedule of works

required and associated costs to assist in Council budget forecasting.



Implement these retro-fit works over the next 7-10 years to bring them up to

current standards.

The existing on-road cycle network is defined as any on-road cycle route that includes

any cycle line marking, logos, arrows, stencils and reflective green surfacing. There are

sections that could be improved e.g. line marking often tapers off before roundabouts

and intersections. It is proposed that these design issues are continuously improved

upon where possible throughout the life of the document and beyond.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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

Identify incomplete connections in the existing on-road cycle network. Resolve

design issues through any new road rehabilitation works.

The proposed off-road cycle network will be sealed paths generally 2.5 metres wide or

more and constructed in line with current AustRoads Guidelines. In some instances

where space is restricted, a portion of the route may be on-road or use existing service

roads to complete the route. To tie in with the Brimbank Urban Forest Strategy, planning

of any new proposed route should incorporate tree planting for shade provision and

aesthetics along the journey.



Ensure that the Cycling and Walking Strategy projects align with Urban Forest

Strategy to ensure the co-ordination of tree planting along new shared path

routes.

The routes that are indicated as arterial road routes are generally routes that are

considered too complex to be upgraded through the scope of Council’s works. These

routes are within VicRoads corridors (responsible authority) and generally have sufficient

road verge to adequately provide safe off-road shared paths to an acceptable standard.

It is proposed that these upgrades occur through co-ordination with VicRoads during

road upgrades and new works planning phases. Given the sporadic nature of these

works, it is envisaged that the implementation of these routes will be ongoing and when

opportunities become available.



Work with VicRoads to identify any upcoming road work proposals on arterial road

routes annually.



Co-ordinate the planning of any new works on these arterial road routes to

ensure good cycling and walking outcomes are implemented.

Local connector routes are generally proposed within the local road and park network of

residential areas. Refer to

for further detail.

Proposed bridges would have a single span and be suited for pedestrian and cycling

purposes only. Minimum clear width of bridges should be no less than 3 metres.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

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Existing connections will be maintained and enhanced where required. Wayfinding

signage will be incorporated.

There is opportunity to increase connectivity into the six (6) surrounding councils.

Brimbank will actively work with these councils to deliver these connections and

advocate for greater cross council linkages. This is also a key initiative of West Trails.



Seek endorsement from the adjoining councils for the proposed future

connections into these municipalities.



Establish regular on-going working groups with adjoining councils to advocate for

greater cross council cycling and walking connections.



Prepare business cases to fund and implement West Trails.

Council has gradually increased the network of circuit paths throughout Brimbank. There

are currently 36, 13 of which have been constructed since 2008. Refer to

for further

detail.

There are several new circuit paths planned over the coming years. These paths will

generally be constructed in the existing park network and have an overall circumference

of 250m+. Refer to

for further detail.

LEGEND

EXISTING GRAVEL TRAILS

EXISTING OFF ROAD SHARED PATH

WYNDHAM

HUME

MELTON

MOONEE VALLEY

MARIBYRNONG

HOBSONS BAY

EXISTING ON ROAD CYCLE NETWORK

PROPOSED OFF ROAD CYCLE NETWORK

*

PROPOSED LOCAL CONNECTOR ROUTES

PROPOSED BRIDGE

PROPOSED MAIN RD ROUTES

(Co-ordination with VicRoads required)

EXISTING CONNECTION TO

ADJOINING MUNICIPALITY

PROPOSED FUTURE CONNECTION TO

ADJOINING MUNICIPALITY

PROPOSED ARDEER GREEN ACTIVITY

CYCLING HUB (To include walking circuit path)

EXISTING WALKING CIRCUIT PATHS

PROPOSED WALKING CIRCUIT PATHS

*

In some instances where spaces is restricted the

route may be partially or fully on-road

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

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Through the consultation process, it was understood that Brimbank residents would like

to see more local pedestrian and cycle routes (routes that can connect people from

where they live to their local shops, park or school for example). It was suggested that

existing ‘back streets’ with low traffic volumes could be very easily converted into these

routes.

‘Local routes’ have been renamed ‘Local Connector Routes’ and have been revised to

reflect a far greater network with increased accessibility to the general community. Local

Connector Routes are generally proposed within the local road network of residential

areas. In some instances these local routes will also connect through parks, reserves and

utilise existing infrastructure such as local foot bridges and footpaths.

These routes have been carefully selected to be:

Generally within 250m of any given residence or closer

Selected to be routes that connect to schools, local shops, parks and playgrounds

and other community infrastructure such as libraries, community centres etc

Generally provide good connections into the wider network of strategic routes, and

Have been selected where possible on roads that already have traffic calming

measures in place to increase safety.

It is proposed that local connector road routes be reduced to 40km/h where possible and

incorporate traffic calming solutions where appropriate. These routes will provide safe

and effective local connections yet be low cost to implement with many routes only

requiring road speed limit marking, cycle logos, sharrows and signage. Many of these

routes could be gradually implemented over the next 10 years as part of Council’s

ongoing capital works road rehabilitation budget. Refer to

for examples of

connector route treatments.

It is envisaged that these routes are also enhanced for walkability as they are just as

much about local pedestrian connections as cycle connections. These routes should

typically be beautified through tree planting to ultimately achieve full canopy cover and

provide shade. Safer infrastructure such as raised pedestrian crossings to schools and

local shops should be investigated and constructed where required.



Identify upcoming road rehabilitation projects earmarked as local connector

routes and plan for their implementation.



Design and deliver these local routes to ensure good quality cycling and walking

outcomes are achieved.



Identify where hazards occur along these routes and incorporate safer

infrastructure such as pedestrian crossings at these locations.



Implement the updated Cycling and Walking Strategy in tandem with the Urban

Forrest Strategy to ensure the co-ordination of tree planting along new local

connector routes.

The $13 million transformation of Upper Stony Creek (Gilmore Road – Furlong Road,

Sunshine North) is anticipated to start construction in 2017. This project is externally

funded and will be constructed on Melbourne Water land. The current creek consists of a

stark concrete lined drain and an open retarding basin which is devoid of any existing

vegetation and is totally fenced off to public access.

The transformation will create a 50 metre wide naturalised creek with 3 kilometres of

shared cycling and walking trails including a circuit path. The creek will be widened to

slow water flow and planting will be undertaken at the edges of the creek bed, in the

riparian zone and on the available dry land to create a green leafy environment. There

will also be seats and picnic facilities along the paths for people to sit and enjoy the re

naturalised creek environment.

The Ardeer Green Activity Hub project is a partnership project between Brimbank City

Council, the Department of Health and Human Services, City West Water, Melbourne

Water and VicRoads. A Masterplan for the project was adopted by Council in 2015. It is

estimated the costs to implement the Masterplan works would be in the order of

$5.2 Million. Facilities that are proposed in the Masterplan include:

A one (1) kilometre long and eight (8) metre wide criterium circuit

A small single track cross country mountain bike circuit

A recreation or competition BMX track

Dirt jumps/pump track

Recreational walking trails

A cycling education centre made from shipping containers

Significant tree planting, and

Rehabilitation and extension of remnant grassland.

Funding would need to be sought from State and Federal agencies and other key

stakeholders in order to proceed with the project. The Masterplan can be viewed on the

Council Website.

Council has recently developed a new directional signage template for Brimbank’s cycling

network. This signage has already started to be implemented across some of the more

popular routes. The intent of the signage is to provide a more legible journey for cyclists

in a simplistic format. It is envisaged that over the next 7-10 years all existing routes

will be retro fitted with this directional signage. Any proposed new routes will now

include this signage as part of the standard works package. This is shown in

Council will investigate the use of QR codes on future directional signage. QR codes could

be scanned via a smart phone and provide information on location and nearby amenities.

Similar initiatives have been implemented across other municipalities with success.



Conduct a full assessment of existing signage across the cycle network. Create a

program of works to implement signage requirements over the next 7 -10 years

to assist in Council budget forecasting.



Install this signage over the next 7-10 years to achieve complete network

coverage of directional signage in Brimbank.



Consider the use of scannable QR codes on future directional signage.

As part of Brimbank’s ongoing commitment to make the city more legible, Council has

developed a unified suite of town centre wayfinding signage. The overall aim of this

signage is to encourage and facilitate a more walkable and pedestrian friendly

environment in Brimbank’s town centres.

This signage has recently been implemented throughout the Sunshine Town Centre with

plans to implement a similar signage suite through St Albans in the next few years. It is

envisaged that all major Brimbank town centres and villages will have a similar suite of

signage installed within the next 7-10 years. An example of the Sunshine Town centre

pedestrian way finding signage is shown in

.



Review plans for the implementation of town centre wayfinding signage. Ensure

that all town centres and relevant sized villages have been factored in. Prepare

program and cost schedules for these works to assist in Council budget

forecasting.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

20

As part of Brimbank’s Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan 2008, Council is continually

looking for opportunities to incorporate walking circuits into our parks as they undergo

upgrades. Since 2008 Council has constructed 13 new circuit paths in our park network

and has several more planned over the coming years. All new and proposed circuit paths

have generally been selected in parks that can accommodate a rounded circuit where

possible with an overall circumference of 250m+. Other considerations when planning

circuit paths include tree planting to provide shade and other supporting facilities, such

as drink fountains and exercise equipment where possible. This is shown in



Construct this type of treatment for any new shared path built through a park or

reserve as required.



Audit all existing end of trip treatments through parks and reserves and assess

whether new treatment is required. Create program of works to assist in Council

budget forecasting.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

22

Council has recently been prompted by the community to explore the idea of an ‘Arts &

Culture Trail’ within Brimbank, particularly in and around Sunshine with potential to

expand this into St Albans. Sunshine has a rich history with the Sunshine Harvester

Works being the largest organisational employer in Australia in its time. Sunshine was

also birthplace of the ‘Sunshine Auto Header’ one of the first patented self-propelled

combine harvesters in the world.

Sunshine is now undergoing an urban transformation, with a distinct focus on art taking

shape. A number of new art installations have just been completed, with more still to

come. Some of the recent and planned art works & historical points of interest include:



Wall Mural at Sunshine Station



Art work on pedestrian overhead bridge to HV McKay Memorial Gardens



‘Reflexio Qualis’ 2 piece art installation on Hampshire Road by Col Henry



‘Man Lifting Cow’ on Hampshire Road by John Kelly



Historic Harvester/Russell Street Gates. The Sunshine Town Centre Structure Plan

2014 has identified a possible future pedestrian link at this site. However, as this

area is privately owned any possible future pedestrian link will be subject to access

being provided by the land owner/future developer



Art poles in RT Pollard Gardens



HV Mckay Memorial Gardens, and



Sunshine Grain Silos.

The Arts & Culture Trail will provide a ‘trail’ that viewers could follow to look at these

various art pieces & historical points of interest. The trail could involve way finding

maps, sequenced plaques in pavement or smart phones apps (provide information), for

example, to direct viewers along this route. This trail could potentially become a future

tourist attraction for Brimbank.



Explore the idea of an Arts & Culture Trail through Sunshine to view the various art

works and history on offer.



Investigate the initial feasibility of this Arts & Culture Trail being implemented as

part of the roll out of the Hampshire Road urban design project



Include wayfinding signage along the Maribyrnong River trail to encourage people

to connect into the Sunshine Town Centre.

The need for a better Council based cycling and walking network map was expressed

through the consultation process. It was suggested that a map be provided on the

Council website that is regularly updated to reflect new trails as they are built. This map

could also be used to provide information on upcoming projects such as proposed trails,

trail alignments, trail lengths as well as estimated construction and completion dates.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

23



Work towards a Cycling and Walking Network Map on the Council Website which is

regularly updated to provide public with better cycling and walking information.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

28

Prioritisation of cycling and walking schemes is intended to deal with the Shared User

Path (SUP) infrastructure projects only. As mentioned previously Local Connector Routes

will be dealt with through Council’s ongoing capital works road rehabilitation budget over

the next 10+ years and proposed arterial road routes will be dealt with through future

VicRoads infrastructure upgrades. An emphasis for the prioritisation of SUP schemes will

focus on creating and completing connections to shops, schools, activity centres,

employment nodes, public transport nodes, parks, recreational trails, commuter routes,

etc.

The updated map has proposed a total of 32 Off-Road cycling routes (exclusive of sub

routes). As per the existing Strategy each scheme has been scored against a weighted

criterion to provide an overall score which has been used to prioritise the schemes. The

criteria relate to the Strategy objectives and are provided in

.

Each route has been ranked against the criteria, using a ranking of 0 to 3, with 0 having

no impact to 3 having the strongest impact.

Potential Usage

2

Provides feasible

proposals and

implementation

High Likelihood of implementation

1

Chance for external funding opportunity

2

Value for money (Major Infrastructure)

1

Works towards

completing the cycle

network and

associated facilities

Better trail Connections

1

Better commuter connections

1

Improved links to Education

(primary/secondary/college/university)

1

Links to Activity Centres

3

Links to transport nodes

1

Complete network gaps

1

Links to recreational and/or community

destinations

2

Links to urban growth areas

1

Connects with existing facilities

1

Improves Safety for

Cyclists

Safety Improvements

2

The 32 routes were all tested against the criteria. 12 schemes scored 30 or above out of

a possible score of 42. These schemes have been identified as the highest priority

schemes that Council will look to implement in the short term. The remaining schemes

have been divided into medium priority (scores between 25-30) and low priority (scores

below 25) and will form part of the longer term strategy. These are listed in

.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

29



Work towards implementing the SUP network improvements, starting with the

highest priority proposals. Create an implementation schedule for these works to

assist in Council budget forecasting.



Advocate implementation of this SUP network through external funding sources,

such as, infrastructure projects, road upgrades and developments.

LEGEND

EXISTING GRAVEL TRAILS

EXISTING OFF ROAD SHARED PATH

WYNDHAM

HUME

MELTON

MOONEE VALLEY

MARIBYRNONG

HOBSONS BAY

EXISTING ON ROAD CYCLE NETWORK

PROPOSED OFF ROAD CYCLE NETWORK

*

PROPOSED LOCAL CONNECTOR ROUTES

PROPOSED BRIDGE

PROPOSED MAIN RD ROUTES

(Co-ordination with VicRoads required)

EXISTING CONNECTION TO

ADJOINING MUNICIPALITY

PROPOSED FUTURE CONNECTION TO

ADJOINING MUNICIPALITY

PROPOSED ARDEER GREEN ACTIVITY

CYCLING HUB (To include walking circuit path)

EXISTING WALKING CIRCUIT PATHS

PROPOSED SCHEME NUMBER

PROPOSED WALKING CIRCUIT PATHS

*

In some instances where spaces is restricted the

route may be partially or fully on-road

1a

1b

1c

1d

3

4a

4b

5

11

12

13

14

15a

22a 22b

15b

15c

24a

24b

15d

17

16

18

19

20

21

23

25

26

27

28

29 30

31

32

6

7

7

8a

8b

9a

9b

10

2

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

37

This section provides a summary of the recommended improvements and design

principles for walking and cycling as described in section 3,4 & 5.

3.1 Existing network

Improvements



Assess existing gravel trail network to identify

where improvements/ upgrades to sealed paths

can be made.



Address issues with existing shared path

networks, including:

o

Fix sections of paths to be minimum 2.5

metres wide as per Austroads standards.

o

Update existing shared paths to include

appropriate line marking and signage.

o

Fix physical connectivity to adjoining

networks by removing impediments,

barriers etc.

o

Ensure smooth and logical entrance and

exist transitions to shared paths and

adjoining off-road treatments.



Address issues with existing on-road cycle

network, including:

o

Fix existing on road cycle treatments

where possible to be in line with 4.1.

3.2 Shade/ Tree

Planting



Plan any new shared paths in conjunction with

tree planting delivery as part of the Brimbank

Urban Forrest Strategy



Investigate tree planting along all existing routes

as part of the One Million Trees program.

3.3 External Co

Ordination



Advocate with VicRoads for the delivery of

proposed arterial road routes.



Co-ordinate the planning of any proposed road

upgrades with VicRoads to ensure quality cycling

and walking outcomes.



Seek endorsement from adjoining councils as to

the proposed future network connections.



Actively work with these councils to create a more

integrated cross council cycling and walking

network.

4.1 Local Connector

Routes



Deliver local connector routes as part of Council’s

ongoing road rehabilitation program.



Design and deliver projects to ensure good quality

outcomes are achieved, including:

o

Investigate safer infrastructure such as,

raised pedestrian crossings, refuge islands.

o

Fix existing footpaths where trip hazards

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

38

occur.

o

Investigate traffic calming measures and

reduced speeds of 40km/h.

o

Link into Urban Forrest Strategy by co

ordination of boulevard tree planting along

these routes.

o

Investigate shared road treatments, road

closures, partial road closures and

contraflow streets.

o

Implement new linemarking and logos,

such as, sharrows, buffers and directional

line marking.

4.2 Signage



Conduct audit of existing signage network. Create

implementation program to update gaps.



Review plans for implementation of way finding

signage in all town centres and villages. Ensure

programs are developed to implement new way

finding signage.



Consider the use of QR codes on future directional

signage.

4.3 Pedestrian Circuit

paths



Review the suitability of pedestrian circuit paths

in future planning of park upgrades on an ongoing

basis. Implement these as part of the park

upgrade.

4.4 End of Trip

Treatments



Install end of trip treatments as per Austroad

guidelines in any new shared path through a

parkland or reserve.



Audit all existing end of trip treatments. Create

program to implement these works.

4.4 Arts & Culture Trail



Explore the idea of an ‘Arts & Culture Trail’

through Brimbank to view the various art works

and history on offer.



Investigate the feasibility of this trail being

implemented as part of the Hampshire Road

project.

4.5 Cycling and Walking

Network Map on

Council Website



Create a Cycling and Walking Network Map on the

Council Website which is regularly updated to

provide the public with current information.

5.1 Prioritised Network

Improvements



Implement the shared path network

improvements, starting with the highest priority

schemes.



Advocate implementation of this shared path

network through external funding sources.

Brimbank Cycling and Walking Strategy Update 2016

August 2016

39

Brimbank City Council, (2013) Brimbank Greenhouse Reduction Strategy 2013-2023

transitioning to a low carbon future.

Brimbank City Council, (2016) Creating Better Parks Policy & Plan – A review and

proposition for creating ever better parks.

Brimbank City Council, (2016) Urban Forest Strategy 2016-2046.

State of Victoria, Department of Transport Planning and Local Infrastructure, (2014) Plan

Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Strategy, [Online],

Available:http://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/131362/Pl

an-Melbourne-May-2014.pdf [12 April 2016].

VicRoads. (2012) Bicycle Network Planning, [Online],

Available:https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/cycling/bicycle-network

planning [12 April 2016].

Western Metropolitan Councils Melbourne, (2015) West Trails Draft Report v5 2015.

Telephone:

9249 4000

Email:

info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Post:

PO Box 70

SUNSHINE VIC 3020

Website: www.

brimbank.vic.gov.au

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TTY dial 133 677 or Speak & Listen 1300 555 727 or

www.iprelay.com.au, then enter 03 9249 4000

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