Devonport City Council is taking the next step toward a more connected, accessible and active community with the development of a new combined Walking and Riding Strategy 2026-2031, unanimously endorsing its release for community consultation at its April Meeting.
Community feedback is being sought on the draft Strategy from Wednesday 29 April to Thursday 28 May 2026. Feedback will then be considered prior to tabling the draft Strategy at a future Council meeting for formal adoption.
Building on earlier initiatives, including the Bike Riding Strategy first adopted in 2010 (updated in 2015) and the Pedestrian Strategy introduced in 2012 (updated in 2016), the new Strategy brings together planning for both walkers and riders into a single, forward-looking framework.
The Strategy will guide Council's planning, decision-making and investment in footpaths, bike lanes and safe crossings over the next decade, with a strong focus on urban areas and properties connected to the existing pathway network.
Mayor Alison Jarman said the Strategy reflects the evolving needs of the community and aligns with broader state priorities.
"This Strategy is about creating a safer, more connected Devonport where people of all ages and abilities can confidently choose to walk or ride," Mayor Jarman said.
"We've seen significant growth in our pathway network over recent years, including connections through the Coastal Pathway to Latrobe, Spreyton and Ulverstone. This plan ensures we continue that momentum in a coordinated and strategic way."
The Strategy introduces key concepts including Walking Precinct – where pedestrian access is prioritise – and Active Transport Corridors, which emphasise walking and riding over motorised transport.
It also aligns with the Tasmanian Government's Walk, Wheel and Ride Strategy (2025), ensuring consistency in standards and expectations across the region.
"Aligning with the State's vision means we're not just planning locally, we're contributing to a broader, statewide network that supports healthier lifestyles and more sustainable transport choices," Mayor Jarman said.
The Strategy focuses on three core objectives:
- Improving path infrastructure conditions to ensure a safe network
- Supporting the safe sharing of roads, paths and reserves
- Addressing gaps to create a complete and future-ready network
Through analysis and community consultation, several key issues were identified, including inconsistent infrastructure standards; challenges in shared path use; and missing or sub-standard links.
To address these, the Strategy outlines 14 targeted actions, including:
- Improving path-road crossings and safety
- Establishing clear design standards
- Enhancing maintenance and data reporting systems
- Upgrading signage and defining path etiquette
- Planning and delivering major projects and missing links
- Improving data on path usage and incidents
Community engagement has played an important role in shaping the Strategy, with input gathered from previous consultations, direct feedback and an online survey conducted in March – April 2024. While the survey attracted a modest 56 responses, it provided valuable insight, particularly from older resident, into how the network is used and where improvements are needed.
Further community consultation will be undertaken before the Strategy is finalised.
"This is a long-term vision for Devonport," Mayor Jarman said.
"We're committed to working with our community to deliver a network that is safe, inclusive and encourages more people to get out, get active and enjoy our city."
Feedback on the draft Walking and Riding Strategy 2026-2031 can be made by visiting Speak Up Devonport via - Speak Up Devonport by close of business Thursday 28 May 2026.
