A proposed off-road shared trail along the Western Freeway from Melton to Caroline Springs is one of the top priorities of a multi- council strategy to improve pathways in the west.
With input from Melton, Wyndham, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong councils, the western metropolitan region trails strategic plan seeks to improve the connectivity, quality and use of regional trails in Melbourne’s west over the next decade.
The plan noted that the west had “an incomplete network … [with] gaps in otherwise extensive trails, as well as trails that stop short of logical destinations or connections”.
It outlines a proposed Western Freeway Trail which will provide a direct link from the Melton township to Caroline Springs, while connecting to a number of other regional trails within the network.
“Due to the direct nature of the trail, it will offer an excellent commuter cycling corridor towards the more urban areas of the western metropolitan region,” the plan states.
“The trail could create the first trail link to metropolitan Melbourne for the residents of the Melton township, including links to other population centres in the west and via other regional trails all the way to central Melbourne.”
But funding could potentially be a “significant issue” due to the length of the trail [about 16 kilometres].
The plan states the trail works would most likely be achieved as part of future upgrades to the Western Freeway.
“There are also a number of major intersections along the proposed alignment where implementing a well-integrated crossing could pose a potential issue,” the plan states.
“Negotiations between additional stake- holders in regards to design, funding and construction of the path also has the potential to slow the progress on the implementation.”
According to the plan, there are long-term plans to upgrade the freeway to improve safety and meet future needs of a growing population.
If created, the Western Freeway trail will link the outer western growth areas with the inner suburbs, most likely appealing to commuters riding along the Toolern Creek Trail to the Wellness Trail.
The plan also found Taylors Hill was one of the worst-serviced areas by existing or proposed regional trails.
