by Councillor Nathan Tilbury
Active Transport means a network of infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians to safely move around.
This is also benefits motorists as these facilities keep cyclists and pedestrians safely off the roads and, in many cases, completely separated. It also equates to less motor vehicles on our roads.
In recent months I have been actively experiencing the impressive cycling and pedestrian networks that are enjoyed across other local government areas surrounding the Hornsby Shire.
The most disappointing thing for me is not that Hornsby doesn’t have these amenities, it’s that we don’t even have a plan for them. Having a plan means we can apply for State and Federal government funding opportunities while working directly with our neighbouring councils and Transport for NSW to ensure the network links seamlessly.
Some of the impressive active transport facilities I have recently used include;
• Parramatta’s use of the light rail corridor along the former Carlingford railway line.
• Ryde – Parramatta foreshore pathway network along Parramatta River that links the impressive facilities in Sydney Olympic Park & the Parramatta CBD.
• Willoughby Council’s great network along a former drainage easement. This allows cyclists & pedestrians to easily access the Sydney CBD almost entirely off-road.
• Penrith has a popular loop circuit along the Nepean River.
• Central Coast has a variety of great pathways with my favourite being the Umina – Gosford shared pathway.
• Newcastle has an extensive network of foreshore tracks & with excellent links to its CBD.
All these are supported by clear signage, ample shade & various facilities such as public toilets, drinking stations, rest areas, even regular markets. In addition, there are thriving small businesses, such as cafes, dotted along the routes.
Safely cycling and walking is a crucial way for the whole family to move around for both recreation and commuting. While some councils are delivering this infrastructure for their residents in an impressive way unfortunately, in the Hornsby Shire this has not been council’s focus, and our residents are missing out.
Each year we invest millions of dollars on upgraded our roads and this is crucial. But so is delivering alternative and healthier methods for residents to safely move around.
The Hornsby Shire has one of the highest rates of bike ownership and walking is our number 1 form of exercise. Our residents are pleading with Council to deliver the infrastructure and for too long Hornsby Council has talked about preparing an Active Transport strategy, only to have it fall by the wayside because a councillor’s pet project has taken the resources.
It’s time we listen to our community to deliver what so many residents are screaming for, before the Hornsby Shire falls further behind or misses out entirely.
I will be working hard to make an Active Transport Study a high priority for Hornsby Council in 2026. If you have an interest in engaging with council regarding an Active Transport strategy, feel free to reach out.
Clr Nathan Tilbury 0403 227 560
[email protected]
