Northern Beaches Council is seeking community opinion on improving the cycling experience and cycle paths on the Northern Beaches.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council is committed to encouraging people to use alternative means of transport more often, such as cycling, and their cars less often.

“We are very keen to hear from the community about their cycling experience in the area, in particular how the cycling network can be expanded, improved and where people believe the gaps in the network are.

“We would like to know what motivates you to get on your bike, what’s stopping you from cycling more and how we can help make riding safer.

“Expanding the footpath and shared path networks to improve connectivity and safety to make walking and cycling an attractive alternative, makes good sense.”

Local residents can have their say by visiting Council’s YourSay page or by attending three drop-in sessions.

The sessions will be held at Manly Library on Saturday 16 February from 12 noon to 2pm, Mona Vale Memorial Hall on Tuesday 19 February 9.30 to 11.30am and at the Dee Why Council Chambers also on Tuesday 19 February 5 to 7pm.

There will also be a series of ‘pop-up’ sessions (“Fruit for your Thoughts”) to be held at popular community and recreational hubs.

Council’s YourSay page includes an interactive mapping tool which displays a draft proposed cycling network for discussion. People can make comment on the network by using drop pins to leave remarks or notes about any points along the network.

Feedback from the community engagement process which closes Sunday 3 March will be used in the development of Council’s draft Bike Plan, which will provide direction and actions points to improve the cycling network across the Northern Beaches.

The draft Bike Plan, when complete, will be part of Council’s Move Northern Beaches Transport Strategy.

Media Enquiries: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 9942 2678