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Car-dependent Perth, like so many other cities, is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. NPQ is designed to be a catalyst for how we live and move around our city. Integrating land use and transport planning will contribute significantly to this. Done effectively, it will produce an environment where public transport, walking and cycling make up a greater proportion of transport trips.
Bicycles have a critical role in moving towards a sustainable transport system. The bicycle is an accessible, low cost, non-polluting and healthy mode of travel. NPQ understands and supports the fact that bicycle transportation will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and our dependence on fossil fuel. The proportion of trips made by bicycles can be increased significantly through effective promotion, planning and infrastructure provision.
Map of proposed NPQ Transit Route.
NPQ will have 18km of cycling network. This will be another key aspect and investment in sustainable urban infrastructure. Developing cycleways and pedestrian walkways as viable and attractive ways to get around the development will reduce the need and desire by people to drive and will relieve pressure on the road system.
NPQ aims to create a cycling and pedestrian network safe enough for children to use unsupervised and to promote cycling as a means of ordinary, everyday transport.
Currently about three per cent of transport trips in the Perth metropolitan area are made on a bicycle but the potential is much greater. Half of all car trips are within cycling distance and Perth's weather conditions are perfect for cycling most of the year.
Substituting bicycle trips for car trips will also reduce health impacts associated with pollution, such as respiratory disease. Bicycle use also enhances community safety through more 'eyes on the street'. Bicycles offer a low cost, accessible mode of travel, for a range of trip distances and age groups. They reduce traffic congestion and enhance the efficiency of the transport system.
For many years bicycles have been a marginalised mode in transport planning and urban design. Investment in bicycle transport is a 'no regrets' option that is justified on health, environmental and economic grounds and will enhance sustainability.
NPQ will provide a safe, friendly environment that is needed to encourage greater bicycle use. This includes an integrated, accessible network of paths and on-road routes that provides adequate space for bicycles.
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