By Paul Wijngaarden
BayBUG Representative on Canada Bay Council Rhodes Committee
The Committee met to consider updates on developments in the area, notably the opening of the Bennelong Bridge and construction of “The Connection” Community Centre. These developments are positive for the Community and for access from the West via Wentworth Point. However, The BIG disappointment has been the intransigence of RMS in not permitting official cyclist use of the roadway now used only by the few buses and emergency vehicles. We continue to advocate for a more realistic approach to use of the facility especially for commuter cyclists. The shared path is often heavily trafficked by pedestrians and cyclists.
Other key issues are for a cross rail corridor connection / link to Blaxland Road to provide a safer route north without needing to negotiate the Leeds Street / Blaxland Road Intersection, and the connection at southern end under Homebush Bay Drive.
We have been informed orally a cross corridor connection is under consideration as part of Rhodes East Precinct planning. The link south under Homebush Bay Drive has been raised on a number of occasions but nothing has materialised to date.
M4 West Widening Briefings and West Connex Community Briefings / Consultations
Flemington Station Upgrade
Work has progressed to provide lifts to the elevated connection into the Flemington Markets area and a bridge to the newly expanded western end car park facility. Can see this being used by cyclists to access the markets from Homebush West without needing to negotiate Bridge Road or Centennial Drive.
Strathfield Council Bike Plan
Contributions were made towards the BayBUG submission for review of the existing Bike Plan.
Parramatta Road Urban Development Plan
Meetings attended and contributions made including via online surveys.
Bicycle NSW Survey
Contribution made via completion of an online survey.
Bike North organised Advocacy Seminars
Have attended Seminar sessions at North Ryde and Ryde along with Rolf Muller, Geoff Ashton and David Martin.