Marlborough Walking and Cycling Strategy 6. Walking and Cycling Network Plan Discussion – Refer Appendix J for Plan Network plans have been prepared and are included in Appendix J. They show existing facilities for walkers and cyclists (except footpaths, which occur on most urban streets), and proposed facilities which are also to be discussed in the Action Plan. The proposed facilities are only indicative and suggest the optimum facilities and off-road connections however may not be possible. The network plans will be reviewed and updated periodically, and current versions will be available on Council’s web site (www.marlborough.govt.nz). Additional “BikeWalk” maps have been created to raise awareness of what paths, access ways and cycle routes are available around the district for both locals and visitors. Three network plans have been developed to date: 1. Blenheim urban area 2. Blenheim / Renwick area 3. Picton urban area The network plans do not indicate footpaths but do show paths, accessways and tracks (both existing and proposed. Cycle facilities, proposed lanes and routes (commuter and / or recreational) are also shown. The proposed facilities incorporate the recent urban design study recommendations and the potential long term optimum scenario for Marlborough. These include cycle lanes along high traffic density sections of Maxwell Road, Seymour and Hutcheson Streets and along Wairau and Waikawa Roads in Picton, signalised pedestrian crossings at high pedestrian intersections or similar facilities are also proposed and although not specifically identified on the network plans, an indicative figure has been included within the Action Plan for funding these. The shared path along the rail corridor between Riverlands and Spring Creek is a major proposed facility. Currently, State Highway 1 is the primary link between townships north and south of Blenheim and with high vehicle numbers and no footpaths, cycling and walking options are significantly limited. Development of a shared path would provide a safer off-road alternative to those users. Use of the rail corridor was investigated and a Deed of Grant has almost been finalised with ONTRACK. Funding from NZTA for the construction of the path has not been confirmed at this stage. Written support from local schools and community groups has been received on the proposal and Council approval was given to proceed with this project subject to securing funding. An initial 1 km stage of the path was constructed in 2009 from Blenheim to Aberharts Road using Council’s roading budget. It is proposed to construct an unsealed section of track from Blenheim to Alabama Road heading South to keep this project moving and provide an off-road route to Riverlands School children. If sufficient interest and demand dictates, a potential site for a further mountain bike track development in Picton would be in Victoria Domain or at Boons Valley. Network Plans – Refer Appendix J: Page 13