Connecting The Hills Direct to Brisbane and Beyond - Have Your Say

Published 28 October 2020

The Hills District prides itself on its leafy liveability and soon it might be able to boast its commutability as well.

Council is calling for feedback on a plan to connect Ferny Hills directly to the Kedron Brook bikeway and beyond, with proposed design elements and a digital flythrough of what it could look like, unveiled today for a new shared pedestrian and cycleway.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the proposed pathway goes through Harry Evans Park to link Dinterra Avenue with the popular Kedron Brook Bikeway, which stretches to Mitchelton, Nundah, the city and beyond.

“This project would complete a crucial missing link between the Hills District and Brisbane’s northern suburbs for cyclists and pedestrians,” he said.

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the lifestyle of Moreton Bay and active transport is becoming increasingly popular for all the right reasons: it’s environmentally friendly, cheap, healthy and social.

“With more and more residents getting on their bike or walking in the wake of COVID-19, there’s been a big call from the community for this type of infrastructure.

“By linking to the popular Kedron Brook Bikeway, there’s an opportunity to attract people from Brisbane to retailers in the Hills District, and beyond to Samford, Mt Nebo and Mt Glorious, bringing with them cash to splash on coffees or food to boost the local economy.”

Councillor Matt Constance (Div 10) said he expected locals would welcome better infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians but wants to hear what the community has to say.

“It’s called The Hills District for a reason - it’s not the easiest place to get around on two wheels - and that’s exactly why we need to invest in paths to get people off the busy roads like Patrick Road while making it easier to connect to our local schools, parks, shopping and activities centres,” he said.

“The design proposes fauna-friendly LED lighting while restoring vegetation to ensure the natural environment is not only protected but also improved.

“Safety for our residents is one of my main priorities, which is why we’re looking to install CCTV cameras and fencing from neighbouring properties as part of the design.

“For families, plans for a new playground are being developed to encourage you to stop and feed the ducks when passing through.”

Moreton Bay Regional Council supports a healthy and active healthy for residents by investing in safe, efficient, reliable and integrated transport networks.

Community consultation closes on Monday, 30 November 2020.

Find out more about having your say on the proposed pathway.