Belconnen has had plans for a better cycling network for more than a decade. What riders still need is a funded program to connect the pieces.
The ACT Government’s review of the 2016 Belconnen Town Centre Master Plan recognises improvements delivered through the Belconnen Bikeway, including connections to the University of Canberra and CIT Bruce. It also acknowledges that “some network gaps remain for future consideration”.
The plans identify important connections. The difficulty has been getting them built.
Pedal Power’s Ginninderra advocates have contributed to planning for these links repeatedly over many years. Too often, that work has led to further studies, revised proposals and another wait for funding, while the missing connections remain.
The Belconnen Bikeway shows the value of investment in cycling infrastructure. It also illustrates how connections can be lost along the way. The original funding package was intended to cover the bikeway, the path behind the Belconnen Arts Centre and a path along Benjamin Way linking to the existing path at its southern end. When funding could not cover all three, the Benjamin Way connection was dropped.
Other active-travel investment in Belconnen is welcome. The William Hovell Drive duplication is delivering a new 3-metre-wide off-road shared path, and new path connections along Southern Cross Drive are funded for design and construction. These projects will help address gaps in the wider network.
Other improvements have progressed alongside separately funded developments. Pedal Power has commented on plans for Lathlain Street associated with development opposite Westfield, but these do not extend to the Belconnen Markets.
Individual projects are welcome. However, delivering short sections as development opportunities arise has left Belconnen with fragmented infrastructure. Riders need continuous routes that connect the places they want to go.
The master plan identified links along Benjamin Way, connections across Belconnen Way and a north–south route through the former Joynton Smith busway and Lathlain Street. Together, these would improve access between Florey shops, Westfield, the bus stations, the markets and Jamison.
Item 91 of the review lists the program to establish a “clear and safe cycle network across the centre” as underway. Yet Pedal Power is not aware of a structured, funded program to complete the outstanding links. Riders deserve a clear account of what that status means for delivery.
Pedal Power welcomes the $800,000 provided in the 2026–27 Budget for detailed design of bus priority measures for the Belconnen to City Transitway. The Government’s feasibility work has considered existing cycling routes and the longer-term multimodal vision for the corridor. As detailed design progresses, Pedal Power wants cycling explicitly incorporated, with clear provision for safe, connected routes. Construction remains subject to future funding.
The funded Emu Bank foreshore upgrade will address further issues around Lake Ginninderra, including unstable paving and lighting. These improvements matter, alongside the broader task of connecting the network.
A route is only useful if people can safely complete their journey. A missing section can leave someone facing a difficult crossing, a substantial detour or an unexpected stretch in traffic.
Pedal Power is calling on the ACT Government to publish a coordinated delivery program for Belconnen’s missing cycling links, with priorities, committed funding and construction dates. Years of planning and community input have identified what is needed. That work must now lead to connected paths on the ground.
