The Greens today committed $5.416 million to develop a multi-stage shared scenic pathway connecting Devonport and Smithton.
Greens Member Paul ‘Basil’ O’Halloran MP said the funding included $4.64 million for the rail-line, and an additional $776,000 for the north-west component of the Greens’ proposed Geotrail tourism concept.
“With a relatively small investment, the scenic coastline of the north-west could become an attraction generating $2.5 million per year for the region in tourism income,” Mr O’Halloran said.
“The groundwork for this project is already done, after the Greens negotiated a feasibility study for funding for the Cradle Coast’s Scenic Pathway Plan in 2011.”
“With the groundwork firmly in place, the time is ripe for this exciting project to take the next step.”
“The spin-off benefits from this development are enormous.”
“The project will be a boon for the physical and economic health of north-west coastal communities.”
“This will leverage off our natural assets and encourage more tourists to explore the north west.”
“The Greens long term vision is for a scenic coastal shared pathway connecting Devonport and Smithton for both pedestrians and bicycles.
“The pathway will connect some 30 other landmarks and points of interest along this spectacular stretch of coast.”
“Locals will also benefit from a ‘Pathway Culture’ as the affordability of walking or riding a bicycle will create a greater degree of mobility, especially given the rising cost of petrol.”
“School-aged children from the 45 schools in the area will be encouraged to actively engage in exercise which can only be a positive for preventative health for the region.”
