We are inviting the community to have a say on proposed options for a safer, more connected cycling and walking route between Aireys Inlet and Fairhaven.
The project responds to feedback from the community, which identified a connected cycling path between the two towns as a priority through engagement for Council's Safer Cycling Strategy.
Council has identified a preferred route and developed two concept plans showing different treatment options for creating a safer connection.
Mayor Libby Stapleton said the project was an important step towards understanding what the community would prefer for the pathway.
"We heard from the community that a safer and more connected route between Aireys Inlet and Fairhaven is a priority, particularly for families and children wanting to ride to school and get around their communities safely," she said.
"We now want to hear what matters most to the community as we consider the two options and work towards a design that improves safety for people walking and cycling while maintaining practical access for vehicles."
Both options follow a similar route from Fairhaven's Lialeeta Road through to Aireys Inlet Community Hall and Aireys Inlet Primary School but include different treatments along the way.
One option combines on-road and off-road cycling connections, while the other proposes an off-road shared cycling and walking path.
Cr Stapleton said community feedback would help Council understand which elements of the two options were most important to people who use the route.
"There are different ways we can create a safer connection, and we want to understand what the community values," she said.
"Whether it's safe crossings, greater separation from vehicles or creating a route that is comfortable for families and children, we want to hear from the people who will use it."
Feedback will help inform the next stage of planning and design for the project.
Building safe, active transport networks that connect communities is an objective of the Council Plan 2025-2029.
