DRAFT Pedestrian Strategy

Should the DRAFT Pedestrian Strategy become the FINAL Pedestrian Strategy and plans are made to implement the Strategy, new development will need to adhere to its recommendations.  While it is still in its DRAFT format, you might have ideas that Council can use to ensure pedestrians feel safe.  Maybe the footpath is too narrow, maybe you push a pram, lead a dog, are carrying a shopping load, what do you do when encountering someone walking towards you...with the same load?  What about making all footpaths the same width?   Tell us what you think?

Maybe you can't walk for long distances without needing a seat.  Seats along popular routes could give you the rest you need.   Launceston is really hilly, maybe seats placed strategically in steep street would make walking easier for you.   Maybe you need assistance to walk and to walk any distance is difficult but if the surfaces were smooth , level and kerbs easy to access walking would be easier for you.   What would make walking accessible for you?  

You might say your local street is dark, especially in winter.  You might say crossing the road could be made safer.  Pedestrian safety could be made a priority, crossings could be smooth and well lit,  better lighting could be introduced into residential streets.   Tell us what you think Council could do to 'get Launceston walking'?

Tasmania has the second highest rate of cardiovascular disease and the second lowest life expectancy in Australia.  Almost 72% of Tasmanians aged 15 years and older are not sufficiently active (this statistic comes from the Heart Foundation).   Are the benefits to your health enough encouragement to walk more?  Or, if the services (shops, newsagents, doctor, chemist.....) to your home were linked with public transport would you combine walking with catching the bus?  What else would encourage you to walk more?