Works to build the missing link in the Darebin-Yarra Creek Trail begin today, connecting 600 kilometres of cycling and pedestrian paths for locals across Melbourne’s north and east.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan joined local cyclists today at Sparks Reserve to announce the start of works.
The cycling path will be extended from Napier Waller Reserve in Ivanhoe through Latrobe Golf Course and into Willsmere Park, connecting with the Main Yarra Trail in Kew East near the Eastern Freeway.
Completing the kilometre long final section of the Darebin-Yarra Trail will provide a safer and more direct route for cyclists travelling to the city, and the inner eastern and northern suburbs every day.
Contractor Coleman Rail will undertake the works, as part of the second stage of the $18 million Darebin Creek Trail project.
This will include a 200 metre bridge connecting Latrobe Golf Club to Willsmere Park and a 50 metre span over the Yarra River.
The long standing gap in Melbourne’s Principal Bicycle Network will be removed by creating a connection to Anniversary Trail, Capital City Trail, Koonung Trail, Gardiners Creek Trail, Merri Creek Trail, Plenty River Trail and Diamond Creek Trail.
Cyclists who currently use Heidelberg Road will also benefit from a safer off-road avenue to connect to the Main Yarra Trail.
Works on the first section of the trail from Sparks Reserve to Napier Waller Reserve started in October 2014. The completed Darebin Trail will be opened to the public in late 2017.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan
“Building the missing link in the Darebin-Yarra Trail has been talked about for decades – now we’re getting it done.”
“Hundreds of cyclists will benefit from a safer and quicker journey every day, once we unlock and better connect one of Melbourne’s most popular trails.”
Quote attributable to Member for Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines
"Local cyclists have long fought for the completion of this trail. We are connecting communities along our beautiful waterways; the Yarra River and the Darebin Creek.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020