Walking and Cycling Strategy out for public feedback

Taupo District is already a well known cycling destination and a revised Council strategy to encourage walking and cycling in the district is going out for public consultation.

The draft strategy was adopted for public consultation at a Council meeting last week, which will update and replace the 2006 strategy. It identifies the strategic direction Taupo District Council has for future planning of walking and cycling facilities within the district.

The strategy aims to encourage walking and cycling, and make them more viable and attractive transport choices. It identifies that for many urban door-to-door trips walking or cycling can often be a quicker option than taking the car. It also points out other benefits of walking and cycling, such as the health and fitness benefits, they are non-polluting transport options, and are often more social, allowing time to stop and chat with neighbours.

Councillor Andrew Welch, who helped drive the strategy, said that the public consultation period will give people the opportunity to provide feedback on the state of walking and cycling facilities in the district.

Cr Welch encourages the public to have their say during the consultation period, which has begun and closes 13 November, with submission hearings scheduled for 30 November. Copies of the strategy will be available at the Taupo District Council offices or on the website www.taupo.govt.nz