Alexandra Falls
COMMUNITY group Access Round Kilmore (ARK) is urging Mitchell Shire residents to campaign for a footpath plan in the region,
Despite the Mitchell Shire Council refusing budget allocation for the capital works budget in 2011-2012, ARK is determined to improve the quality of district footpaths.
ARK spokesperson Amy Bell said that the poor footpath planning, particularly on Kilmore’s Sutherland Street, meant it would only be a matter of time before an accident would take place, and not a minor one.
Ms Bell said its still ‘pretty dismal’ that council did not support funding for the project considering the huge public support for the issue.
“Kilmore East and Sutherland Street can’t wait (for footpaths), they need to be improved.”
ARK and Kilmore councillors are suggesting that supporters of better pedestrian options in Kilmore approach other councillors in Mitchell Shire, by phone email or mail, to advise them of the importance of these upgrades.
ARK is also redoubling its efforts to help residents reclaim better district paths, and will meet with Victoria Walks community engagement co-ordinator Charmaine Chew.
“Victoria Walks has helped other streets in rural towns, notably Kyneton, to find other ways to engage the shire council and help residents to fight for footpaths,” Ms Bell said.
The VicHealth charity organisation is dedicated to improving pedestrian opportunities for communities across the state and is allocating a part of the <www.victoriawalk/org.au> website for the ARK project, so all Mitchell Shire residents can see the progress regarding local footpaths.
Since driving around Kilmore, Ms Bell said she’s noticed improvements to the footpaths on Victoria Street, the Sam De Gabrielle reserve, Union Road and Apex Park.
“There are no new works, but at least they’ve resurfaced some (footpaths),” Ms Bell said.






