By Matthew Sims
Maribyrnong council is taking a close look at one of the most prevalent modes of active transport globally: walking.
The council is calling for public submissions to update its walking strategy, towards reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and creating a more sustainable city which benefits both people and the environment.
The updated strategy will prioritise zero carbon transport in council infrastructure and planning by encouraging people to swap four wheels for more environmentally friendly accessible options.
Maribyrnong mayor said walking is a fundamental part of everyone’s daily lives.
“When I returned to my third term as Mayor, I committed to focusing on infrastructure that improves the quality of life for our community,” she said.
“I don’t think it gets more back-to-basics than walking.
The feedback aims to capture a range of experiences, needs, voices and ideas in Maribyrnong to shape how the council can improve the pedestrian network to support more people to walk more often.
The council’s understanding of the community’s walking habits will help identify trends, patterns and barriers to support the development of a more contemporary Walking Strategy to improve service provision and delivery.
Whether walking assisted or independently as a form of recreation or exercise, walking delivers both individual and community health and wellbeing, increasing mental and physical health and reducing the risk of chronic disease.
For the community generally, it can support the local economy through shopping locally.
Cr Carters said improving walking options for Maribyrnong will have a number of flow-on effects.
“It produces zero emissions and has flow on effects for health, wellbeing, local economies, safety, community cohesion and the environment,” she said.
“By improving the walkability of our city, we are working towards a better future for all.”
The updated contemporary Strategy will also support other council commitments, including the Council Plan (2021-25), the Maribyrnong Climate Emergency Strategy (2020-25) and the Maribyrnong Integrated Transport Strategy (2012).
Details: yourcityyourvoice.com.au/walking
