Walking Network Plans: Understanding Challenges and Opportunities
Promoting walkability in towns and cities is increasingly recognised as a pivotal goal for fostering healthier and more sustainable communities. The Queensland Government’s ‘Queensland Walking Strategy 2019–2029 (QWS)’ and the Action Plan for Walking “coordinates and integrates the state’s approach to walking so communities can be made better for people of all ages and abilities. The strategy recognises the critical role that walking plays as part of a single integrated transport system accessible to everyone and as part of a healthy, active lifestyle for all Queenslanders.” Source here.
This Queensland initiative not only encourages residents to adopt walking as part of a healthier lifestyle but also integrates it into a broader transport strategy. This integration aims to enhance safety, comfort and inclusiveness for pedestrians.
CPR Group is at the forefront of developing Walking Network Plans, leveraging our extensive expertise in crafting community strategies and concept plans. We understand that retrofitting and reshaping our communities to accommodate pedestrians' needs presents some challenges. Historically, our towns have prioritised vehicular movement, inadvertently erecting barriers, fragmenting neighbourhoods and inconveniencing potential walkers. Recognising these obstacles, we also appreciate the substantial benefits that well-designed walking networks bring to communities.
Queensland Government’s commitment to walking network plans saw the launch of the Walking Local Government Grants (WLGG) 50/50 matched funding program. The WLGG program (the 2024-25 round closed mid-December 2023) served as a financial lifeline for Councils, facilitating the development of Walking Network Plans (WNP) and Priority Works Programs (PWP). Successful grant funding clients are now beginning the process of establishing their community’s Walking Network Plans.
Through these concerted efforts, Queensland is poised to usher in an era where walking emerges as not only a viable mode of transportation but a cornerstone of vibrant, inclusive communities.
CPR Group is excited to be involved with more of these much-needed Walking Network Plans throughout Australia.
Have a chat with our Manager of Planning, Melissa Driscoll, about your steps forward.
P: 1800 100 204
