The popular coastal shared path between Hillarys and Burns Beach has been transformed through the completion of the Hillarys Cycle Network Expansion, a partnership between the City of Joondalup and the State Government.
The $6.9 million active transport infrastructure project, funded by the Cook Government through its Cycling Election Commitment package has delivered significant upgrades to key sections of Hepburn Avenue and the coastal shared path network.
The improvements enhance safety, accessibility and capacity for the growing number of people who walk, wheel and ride along the coast.
Delivered by the City of Joondalup, the project replaced ageing sections of shared path with a new four-metre-wide red asphalt surface, creating a safer and more comfortable experience for bike riders, pedestrians, families, commuters and recreational users.
The coastal shared path is identified as a Primary Route within the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) long-term cycle network, with four metres identified as the preferred width to accommodate increasing demand and support safe two-way movement.
The upgrade responds to strong growth in path usage in recent years. Between 2015 and 2020, bike rider numbers increased by 25 per cent and pedestrian numbers by 60 per cent, placing increasing pressure on sections of path originally constructed between 1989 and 2001.
The expanded network will help support continued active transport uptake in Perth's northern corridor while improving connections to major destinations, including Hillarys Boat Harbour, Ocean Reef Marina, Whitfords Nodes Park, Tom Simpson Park and Burns Beach Foreshore.
Joondalup Mayor Daniel Kingston said the project was a major investment in active transport infrastructure and community safety.
"The Hillarys Cycle Network Expansion is a fantastic outcome for our community, creating a safer, wider and more enjoyable coastal route for everyone who uses it," Mayor Kingston said.
"Our coastline is one of Joondalup's greatest assets, and this project will help ensure residents and visitors can continue to enjoy it safely, whether they are cycling, walking, running or using mobility devices.
"The upgraded path has been designed to reduce conflicts between users, improve visibility and provide the additional space needed to meet growing demand now and into the future.
"It also strengthens connections between some of our most popular coastal destinations, supporting recreation, tourism and active lifestyles while showcasing the natural beauty of our coastline."
The project also incorporated several environmental initiatives, including reusing the existing path alignment to minimise vegetation clearing and repurposing limestone from the original path during construction.
These measures reduced waste, minimised truck movements and lowered fuel consumption throughout the project.
The City acknowledges the support of the Cook Government, the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, and Whadjuk Corporation in delivering the project.
Comments attributed to Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Cook Labor Government is making good on its promises to deliver upgraded transport infrastructure for the Perth metropolitan area and Western Australia.
“Completion of this expansion project provides the community with safe, more comfortable, and convenient active travel options, separated from road traffic.
“The coastal connection links locals and visitors to our stunning beaches and other recreational attractions, as well as local cafes and businesses, supporting the local economy and creating a more vibrant precinct.
“People of all ages and abilities now have even more reason to walk, wheel, and ride more often around our north-western suburbs, and can enjoy accessing the spectacular beachfront without needing to rely on the car.”