A world-class trail around the Mornington Peninsula is a step closer to reality, thanks to $3 million in State Government funding from the Growing Suburbs Fund.
This new funding, along with $2 million previously committed by the Federal Government, means work can soon begin on the first 'missing link' in the ambitious Peninsula Trail network.
The 'missing link' - a shared path between Somerville and Baxter - will allow cyclists to travel off road from the centre of Melbourne all the way to Balnarring. The new path will run alongside the Stony Point rail line, connecting to the Peninsula Link Trail at the northern end, and an existing path from Somerville to Balnarring via Somers at its southern end.
Much of the Peninsula Trail network is already in place. To complete the remaining 'missing links', Council has committed a total of $10 million to the $50 million project and is seeking further State and Federal support.
The Peninsula Trail is a transformational opportunity to showcase the many attractions of the Mornington Peninsula and will deliver a host of economic, social, environmental and cultural benefits to the region.
When complete, the Trail will extend over 100km and offer a continuous off-road cycling and walking track around the Mornington Peninsula.
It will connect to Melbourne's Bay Trail enabling cyclists to travel off road from the centre of Melbourne to the tip of the Mornington Peninsula at Portsea, with another branch running along Western Port to Balnarring and the hinterland.
The completed Peninsula Trail will take its place among the great walking and cycling trails of the world such as the Route de Vins in France.
Local residents will benefit by being able to cycle safely between townships, significantly reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions and improving mental and physical health.
It will also provide visitors and residents with new ways to access our beaches, parks, farmgate sales, vineyards, cafes, restaurants and shops.
Council has identified the Peninsula Trail as a major COVID-19 recovery project, bringing an estimated $22.5 million in direct economic output and creating 51 direct full-time equivalent jobs in the construction phase alone.
