The City of Stonnington will introduce two new local cycling routes and trial 30km/h speed limits in parts of Glen Iris and Malvern as part of a broader Road Safety Improvement Program.
Supported by $2.2 million in funding from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) through the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program, the project aims to create safer, calmer neighbourhood streets for all road users.
The initiative will see the introduction of lower speed limits and traffic-calming measures on:
- Osborne Avenue, Glen Iris – from High Street to Milton Parade
- Ewart Street, Lysterville Avenue, Jordan Street, McArthur Street and Parslow Street, Malvern
Both routes form part of Council's growing network of quiet local streets that make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to walk or cycle to schools, parks, stations and shops.
Mayor Cr Melina Sehr said the trial reflects Council's commitment to improving local safety and supporting active, sustainable travel.
"This is about making our local streets safer and more comfortable for everyone – whether you're walking, driving or riding a bike," Cr Sehr said.
"We know safety is one of the biggest barriers to more people cycling. Calmer speeds give everyone more time to see, react and share the road safely. This trial will help us test what works, listen to the community, and use data to guide future decisions."
Over the 18-month trial, Council will collect data on traffic volumes, speeds, air quality, noise and safety outcomes, with results to be shared publicly at the conclusion of the program.
Residents will also be able to provide feedback throughout the trial via a dedicated project website, ensuring Council can respond to community input as the trial progresses.
Mayor Sehr said the initiative supports Stonnington's broader goal of promoting active, healthy and connected living.
"Creating safer, slower local streets encourages more people to walk, cycle and be active close to home," she said.
"It's part of how we're building a more liveable city – one where people of all ages feel safe and confident moving around their neighbourhoods."
Local cycling routes, also known as shimmy routes, compliment our municipality's arterial road commuter bike lanes. Both types of bike paths play an important and different role in an integrated, safe cycling network.
The Road Safety Improvement Program is part of Council's ongoing partnership with DTP and TAC to deliver evidence-based road safety measures across Stonnington. The program aligns with Council's Transport Strategy, Road Safety Strategy, Cycling Action Plan, Walking Action Plan, Active Stonnington Action Plan and Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which both aim to increase participation in active transport and recreation across the community.
