One of the first major decisions made by the new Northern Beaches Council last Tuesday evening will see the development of a Transport Strategy for the Northern Beaches.

Mayor Michael Regan moved a Mayoral Minute at the meeting to develop the strategy, and said it will provide a clear plan for improving public, active and road transport and will transform the way people move about the Northern Beaches.

“A key focus is rapid public transport connections between Dee Why and Chatswood and between Mona Vale and Macquarie Park.

“Macquarie Park is the fastest growing major employment centre in Sydney. A one hour and 20 minute journey on the 197 bus route to travel 20 km is unacceptable.

“Likewise, more than an hour on the 136 bus route to travel 14 km from Dee Why to Chatswood is unrealistic, especially for daily commuters.

“As part of the overall strategy, Northern Beaches Council has created a new Transport Network team to work closely with Transport for NSW to unclog our network.

The Mayor said Northern Beaches Council will also continue to work closely with local State and Federal members.

“The concept of the “30 minute city” that we have heard from the State and Federal Government, where people can access major services and opportunities like employment and education can be achieved with rapid transport solutions,” Mayor Regan said.

New walking and cycling paths are already being delivered across the Northern Beaches to encourage increased active transport and will be linked with the transport strategy.

A report outlining progress will be presented to Council early in the New Year.