Project overview

• What is a shared-user path and why was it chosen for this project?

• A shared-user path is a public path designated for the use of people walking and bike riding. Shared-user paths can be identified by signage and/or pavement markings showing a pedestrian and a bike.

  We have carefully considered different types of infrastructure in the planning of this project. Shared-user paths are generally suited to routes that provide local links with low walking and/or cycling volumes and accommodate slower speed riding separated from vehicular traffic. Whilst separated footpaths and bike paths tend to be the preferred type of infrastructure, in this instance, a shared-user path was chosen because of the nature of the selected route, constructability considerations and funding constraints.

  Shared-user paths are common across the Northern Beaches, recent examples include Warringah Road, Frenchs Forest and Forest Way, Belrose. These paths make it easier and safer for people walking and bike riding, providing improved transport options for short local trips and recreation.

  We recognise the increasing popularity of e-bikes which is making cycling a more accessible option for a wider range of trips and people of all ages and abilities. This has been considered in the design by ensuring a sufficient width of 2.5m where possible along the route.

  Beyond this project, we will continue to actively work on planning and delivering new separated bike paths across our key regional routes in the Northern Beaches.

• How was the route selected and what information informed the design?

• This route was selected to improve connectivity throughout Beacon Hill, Frenchs Forest and Davidson, to maintain the key objective of the Pipeline Active Transport Corridor project which is no longer able to proceed.

  This selected route was informed by our adopted Northern Beaches Bike Plan and will connect to a range of key local destinations including 7 schools and Frenchs Forest Town Centre.

  The design and route have been informed by extensive analysis including:

  • desktop road and footpath measurements
  • related Council and NSW Government plans such as the Move – Northern Beaches Transport Strategy 2038
  • Frenchs Forest 2041 Place Strategy and Hospital Precinct Structure Plan
  • Australian Standards and technical guidelines such as the Transport for NSW Cycleway Design Toolbox
  • constraints in the study area
  • site inspections.
• What impact will the project have on street speed limits?

• As part of the project, two low-volume local residential streets will be converted into 20 km/h quietways to enhance safety and improve network connectivity. A quietway is a low-speed, mixed-traffic street that allows bicycle riders to travel safely with vehicles in the centre of the lane. The quietways will be implemented on:

  • Dareen Street, Beacon Hill (between the cul-de-sac and Jones Street)
  • Akora Road, Frenchs Forest
• What amenities and transport connections will be available?

• This route will connect residents of Davidson and Beacon Hill with the proposed Frenchs Forest Town Centre and the new Frenchs Forest High School along with improving access to existing shops and primary schools.

  This route will provide links to existing shared paths which connect to Allambie Heights, Narraweena and Dee Why. This project will also improve connections for people joining frequent bus services towards Dee Why, Chatswood and the City from Forestway Shopping Centre.

  Davidson, Frenchs Forest and Beacon Hill have high rates of car ownership, so improving transport infrastructure will give more transport options for residents to help achieve our mode shift aspirations in our MOVE Transport Strategy and reduce transport emissions.

  Wayfinding signage and bike parking will be provided along the corridor. We will seek opportunities to provide bike maintenance stands, water fountains and seating along the route, subject to available funding.

• What happened to the Pipeline Active Transport Corridor?

• The Pipeline Active Transport Project will not be proceeding as originally proposed by Council.

  As planning progressed, the original intended route was found to be less suitable than anticipated, impacting the project’s feasibility.

  We are committed to the original goal of enhancing active transport options in the area, a revised project route has been developed to continue improving connectivity and safety for people walking and bike riding in Beacon Hill, Frenchs Forest and Davidson.

Using the shared path

• What are the rules and safety considerations for path users?

• On shared-user paths, people riding bicycles, skateboards, foot scooters and rollerblades must:

  • keep to the left (unless it’s not practical).
  • give way to pedestrians. This means slowing down and even coming to a stop if necessary.
  • keep to the left of any oncoming pedestrian or bike rider.

  Bike riders are advised to:

  • try and provide one metre of space when overtaking.
  • travel at a speed in accordance with your surroundings. Shared-user paths often have many young children, dogs and older pedestrians that bike riders will need to be aware of. Often their movements can be unpredictable, and you may need to stop in a hurry.
  • use your bell or politely call out “Overtaking on the left/right” to let pedestrians know you are there.

  Pedestrians are advised to:

  • keep left unless overtaking
  • be aware of surroundings such as dogs, children and bike riders.
  • if you are planning to stop, we suggest moving off the path to your left.
  • keep animals on short leads so you can react to any hazards accordingly. Often leads can be hard for bike riders to see when riding and can cause accidents.
• Who can use the path (e.g., pedestrians, cyclists, dog walkers, e-scooter riders)?

• A shared-user path is a public path designated for the use of people walking and bike riding. This can include people walking dogs as well as people riding skateboards, foot scooters and rollerblades. All users are advised to share the space equally and provide mutual respect to others using the path.

  Personal e-scooters remain illegal on NSW roads and road-related areas, including footpaths, shared-user paths and bicycle lanes.

• Is the path safe for nighttime use?

• There is street lighting along the corridor. If you are riding at night, we encourage you to wear light-coloured and/or reflective clothing as well as have working lights on your bike.