Is this happening near you? Twenty five residents in the Upper Hunter town of Merriwa, who happen to live on a section of a new cycleway, are being asked to contribute up to $4000 for the privilege. This is neither a fair nor reasonable decision, and has created unnecessary division around what ought to be an inclusive community asset.
John and Cheryl Dallimore (pictured above) live near a great mural and tourist information stop, but they weren’t asked to pay for that. What’s the difference?
How infrastructure is delivered is just as important as the infrastructure itself and the process must be fair.
'This sets a very dangerous and concerning precedent which isn't under the spirit of Part 13 Division 3 of the Roads Act. As a currently elected Councilor, I understand instances where these provisions need to be applied but this isn't one of them. This is a shared piece of infrastructure which benefits the entire community and will inject vital tourism dollars into the local economy. It should be shared across the community.’ Peter McLean, CEO of Bicycle NSW.
Bicycle NSW urges Upper Hunter Shire Council to reconsider this decision because bicycle infrastructure actually returns a positive social impact of $5 for every $1 spent.
'Bicycle riding is cheap, efficient, incredibly healthy, and carbon neutral. It's great for mental health and bringing communities together. It's also excellent for business. Communities that support bicycle riding are liveable, breathable and attract repeat visits.'
Affected residents Roy and Shaen Morgan
Instead of looking at this as a cost, the Merriwa cycleway should be seen for what it is- an excellent investment in the local communities’ sustainability, health and wellbeing with a 5:1 return to the regional economy.
Peter McLean is concerned that Merriwa may not be alone and that other regional towns are seeing similar examples where the NSW Roads Act is being used to levy local residents for shared infrastructure.
‘When cost of living is on the rise, there are many fairer alternatives to making specific residents chip in, we want to unite communities not divide them.’
Is this occurring in your community? Please let us know by emailing advocacy@bicyclensw.org.au.
