PLANNING BEGINS ON FINAL SECTION OF V1 BIKEWAY - LOGAN RIVER TO NATHAN

The Beattie Government is delivering on a commitment to build a continuous bikeway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast by starting concept planning on the final "missing link" between the Logan River, at Beenleigh, and Nathan.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Paul Lucas said the Logan River-Nathan section would be the final link in the South-East Arterial commuter bikeway, known as the V1.

Main Roads is now seeking community input on the proposal.

Construction is due to start in 2005/06.

Mr Lucas said when completed the V1, which runs parallel to the Pacific Motorway, would be one of the longest bikeways in Queensland.

"This is a great milestone for cyclists in Queensland," he said.

"We are joining Brisbane CBD and the Gold Coast and all public and commercial centres in between in one continuous route.

"Cycling builds fitness, reduces traffic congestion and helps the environment.

"The V1 bikeway will be enjoyed by families, social riders and sportspeople such as triathletes - all in complete safety," Mr Lucas said.

The project is supported by Member for Stretton Stephen Robertson, Member for Waterford Tom Barton, Member for Mansfield Phil Reeves, Member for Mt Gravatt Judy Spence, Member for Springwood Barbara Stone and Member for Woodridge Desley Scott.

In August, Mr Lucas opened a new $3.5 million 35 kilometre section of the V1 bikeway connecting Gaven on the Gold Coast with the Logan River, at Beenleigh.

A continuous bikeway already runs from the Brisbane CBD to Nathan. Mr Lucas said the Logan River to Nathan link was a co-operative effort, with a number of agencies, including state and local government representatives, providing important input into the design phase.

"Main Roads collected views from a range of cycling organisations, and then developed the concept in conjunction with the Logan Bicycle User Group," he said.

"The department is now seeking community input on the concept of the route.

"The route will cater for local and commuter cyclists and reflect the skill levels of a broad range of community cyclists," Mr Lucas said.

He said the concept plan was available for viewing at MPs offices and at Logan City Council libraries. The plan can also be viewed on the Main Roads website www.mainroads.qld.gov.au (follow the links to road projects in South East Queensland region).

"The intention is to provide a safer, more user-friendly bikeway for everyone,'' he said.

Community members have until December 17 to make submissions by emailing www.V1bikeway@mainroads.qld.gov.au or mailing to: V1 Bikeway Project, Reply Paid 70, Spring Hill Qld 4004.

The Queensland Government's Cycle Strategy aims to increase the number of cycling trips in South East Queensland from 2% to 8% by 2011.

"That goal will be easier to achieve when we have great new bikeways like the V1," Mr Lucas said.

Media inquiries: Paul Childs 3237 1942 or 0407 131 654.