Sustainable Transport

This group aims to improve the amenity of South Hobart by reducing our dependence on cars.

Reducing car usage has been shown to contribute to a sense of place, strengthen community ties, increase personal fitness and reduce stress.

To contribute to the group, please join the email discussion group.

Simple options include:

Sustainable Transport Strategy for Hobart Released - Open for Public Comment

At its Monday 14 December 2009 Council meeting a Sustainable Transport Strategy which outlines a draft of new transport arrangements for the city and the region was adopted in principle. This strategy outlines a vision for the future transport sustainability of urban Greater Hobart and beyond.

The Sustainable Transport Strategy has been undertaken by the Council and builds on the original draft Strategy released for public consultation in 2008. This revamped Strategy details the actions Hobart City Council will undertake in its municipal area and suggests the key elements for high quality seamless public transport services for the greater Hobart area.

Included in the Strategy document is a "Visualising the Strategy" section which shows the layering of other projects, plans and strategies the Council has adopted or is currently pursuing in order to realise the aims of the Strategy. This takes the approach of creating of a vibrant, viable and sustainable capital city for the 21st century.

The Sustainable Transport Strategy 2009-2014 is available here.

Comments from the public will be accepted until 1 March 2010.

Great News for South Hobart Cyclists! HCC Purchases Land Along Rivulet Track

At the initial meeting of the South Hobart Sustainable Community, one of the most pressing issues of concern to residents was to gain level access along the rivulet for the bike/pedestrian path. This is an important access route from South Hobart to the City and it will soon be made much more usable! Excerpt from HCC media release below:

“As part of Australia’s Bicentenary in 1988 the Council purchased some land along the Rivulet and with support of the South Hobart Progress Association initiated works on the Hobart Rivulet Linear Park.” “Now a strategically important parcel of land purchased by the Hobart City Council will complete the Hobart Rivulet Linear Park.”

Alderman Valentine said the land recently owned by the Christian City Church has been acquired for the purposes of public access and recreation along the Hobart Rivulet. “This land is situated on the northern side of the Rivulet between Anglesea Street and Council owned parkland. It comprises approximately 0.7 hectares and is wide enough to allow for a separated bikeway and walkway.”

“The Council will now begin the planning process to develop the land for public access and recreation. Part of the planning process will involve community consultation with nearby residents and the broader community, together with the removal of a number of sheds as well as a building,” said the Lord Mayor. “It is also planned for the Council to consult with the community about a long term strategy for the development and public use of the Hobart Rivulet Linear Park. Funds have been allocated this financial year for such a strategy to be developed,” Alderman Valentine said.

SHSC Transport Subgroup Topics of Interest:

The first and most obvious project which the group has identified is the improvement of the Hobart Rivulet walking & cycling track.

See the Google Map for the context of the issue:

Due to a long-standing issue involving Boags and the Hobart City Council, the Rivulet track has been forced steeply up- and down-hill around the Boags site. The diversion makes everyday cycling impractical, and we believe that a levelling of this track would substantially increase the proportion of walkers and cyclists commuting to work. UPDATE - In December 2009, Hobart City Council announced that it has purchased land along the rivulet track, which it will transform into community space and a level path for cyclists and pedestrians!

Other issues:

    • Top priorities for Bike advocacy group

    • Cascade road - turning it from a parking lot to a bike-friendly passageway

    • Strickland avenue - making beginners feel safe to ride up steep terrain

    • Joining forces with Mt Wellington descent company (Island Cycle Tours), who use Strickland Ave / Cascade Road.

    • Strategy for fast-tracking bicycle development through different levels of government - identifying blockages and finding workarounds