Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Wednesday, 17 March, 2021. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Council moves to secure shared paths network and open space

At the 16 March Council Meeting the Council committed to support the further development of walking and cycling infrastructure to improve community wellbeing and tourism opportunities.

The planning scheme amendment will seek to apply the Public Acquisition Overlay to three parcels of land in Kialla and Mooroopna to create shared path linkages and more open space. The Public Acquisition Overlay identifies land that is proposed to be acquired by a public authority and reserves land for a future public purpose.

The land impacted fronts 560 Archer Road, Kialla and will extend the existing shared path network to connect Sanctuary Drive with the Grange estate to the north. This will link new and proposed communities in the area to existing community infrastructure.

A large parcel of land along 90 Seven Creeks Drive, Kialla is identified to construct a north-south shared path and public open space in accordance with the Shepparton South Growth Corridor Outline Development Plan from 2003.

Council will also continue implementing the RiverConnect Paths Master Plan 2015, which plans for the development of new shared and recreational paths in the Shepparton Regional Park between Shepparton and Mooroopna at KidsTown. The planning scheme amendment will seek to acquire part of the land to construct the next route between KidsTown and Gemmill Swamp adjacent to the Midland Highway.

The Public Acquisition Overlay to the three parcels of land is expected to take 12 – 18 months to complete, and will be undertaken in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Kim O’Keeffe said this process will include significant consultation with all affected landowners. “We look forward to being able to extend what is a great community initiative for our region. It will be great to see the day our shared path network can be extended across the region to further recreation options for our community,” she said.

“Linking these paths aligns with our Council Plan to improve opportunities for community health and wellbeing. Our shared path network is also attractive to visitors with flat land and surrounding natural bushland. It is a fantastic attraction for those looking to explore our region,” said Cr O’Keeffe.

Following the application of the Public Acquisition Overlay, Council will initiate the land acquisition process, begin detailed design work and then construct shared paths or open space on the land.