Building an integrated transport network that provides options to reduce our dependence on private vehicles is part of Canberra’s overall urban planning, transport, health, environment and education systems. This network includes all transport modes (walking, cycling, public transport, roads, freight and motor vehicles) and is part of delivering on key government policies, including Transport for Canberra, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Planning Strategy, Action Plan 2 (the ACT climate change strategy), the City Plan and other master plans, and the Healthy Weight Action Plan.
Active travel (walking and cycling) is increasingly recognised as a key feature of the world’s best cities. Rising obesity, traffic congestion and reducing carbon emissions in the face of climate change all present significant challenges for the ACT. Whether for recreation or as a mode of transport, active travel provides many benefits for individuals, families, businesses and local communities:
- health benefits, such as improved mental and physical health
- economic benefits, such as reduced health-care costs, increased property values, increased retail expenditure and reduced construction costs
- environmental benefits, such as reduced congestion, air and noise pollution
- social benefits, such as improved community wellbeing and social cohesion.
In its Active Travel Framework, the ACT Government recognises that investment is essential for encouraging people to make active travel an option more often. The Government has committed more than $87 million in 2012–2018 to extend and improve active travel infrastructure, such as walking and cycling paths. This funding is part of the ACT Government’s Healthy Weight Action Plan, which supports healthy decision-making through good urban planning and encouraging people to choose active travel options.
The Active Travel Framework also seeks to remove obstacles to walking, cycling and riding by:
- improving access to public transport stops
- improving the connectivity of walking and cycling networks
- integrating active travel networks with public transport hubs
- ensuring active travel connections within and through town and group centres
- improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists
- providing supportive infrastructure such as lighting, shade, signs, seating and drink fountains
- encouraging employers to provide end-of-trip facilities.
Small changes count! Walk to local shops when you can, rather than drivePhoto: ACT Government
Source: ACT Government83