Walking is an important means of transport, and also a great way to maintain people's overall health.
Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. It can also reduce risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers. Unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free and doesn't require any special equipment or training.
We're preparing a Walking Strategy to support residents and visitors to further increase walking trips and ensure that Stonnington is accessible and inclusive to all in our community.
This strategy is a key action of our Integrated Transport Plan and will look at:
- How we can make walking more inclusive, safe, accessible and enjoyable for all in our community including those with mobility needs, those who may not currently feel safe, and the local school community.
- Where Council should focus its attention to prioritise walking and improve conditions including widening footpaths, reducing crossing distances, addressing street clutter and improving lighting and wayfinding signage.
- How we will manage competing demands for more space for walking and create streets which encourage people to walk.
We need your help to make sure our strategy responds to the important role walking plays in social, environmental and economic contribution as well its benefits to health and liveability.
Information gathered now will help inform the strategy which will then go back out for community consultation.
How you can get involved:
- Complete our online survey.
- Pin locations for ideas for improvements or barriers for accessibility on our online map.
