Construction and background
The construction of the shared path makes it safer and easier for pedestrians and cyclists to access Murdoch Activity Centre and Murdoch Health Precinct, as well as nearby Corpus Christi College, Yidarra Catholic Primary School and Murdoch University.
It forms part of a bigger cycle network throughout the City and also gives local residents a safer and more active option for accessing Murdoch and Bull Creek train stations.
The mandate for the project came directly from the community, who expressed a desire for more safe and connected walking and cycling options throughout the City, which has been reflected in the City’s 2012-2022 Community Plan and South East Neighbourhood Plan.
This specific project was also identified as a priority in the City of Melville Bike Plan 2012, which set out the strategic vision and priorities in regards to improving cycling safety and access throughout the City.
The project was 50% funded by the Department of Transport and 50% funded by the City of Melville.
During the landscaping process associated with the new shared path, mature vegetation was removed in some areas along Fennessy Green. The landscaping work involving new trees, shrubs and groundcovers that followed the path construction has quickly established and is expected to reach maturity in a few seasons. The City has also established a temporary screen fence to provide visual screening and privacy for the residents, which will be removed when the plantings have matured.