WA’s peak cycling body calls for RAC Arena cycle path to be re-opened as petition gathers steam

OVER 1000 people have now signed a petition to re-open the cycle path behind RAC Arena, with the state’s peak cycling body naming it just one of “many dangerous spots” within Perth.

WestCycle chief executive Matt Fulton said a comprehensive review and overhaul had to take place to see the city become truly safe, liveable and vibrant.

“Across Perth, there has been a sustained effort to progressively improve the network of shared paths along train lines and major highways that lead to the city,” he said.

“Unfortunately once you reach the City of Perth boundary, this changes and the provision of cycling infrastructure hits a dead-end and riding conditions become very unsafe and uncomfortable for cyclists.”

Mr Fulton said community feedback, which WestCycle strongly agreed with, was that they would like to see the RAC Arena path re-opened as a safer alternative to the footpath and blind corner on Wellington Street, especially on event days.

“The ideal solution would be the safe and continuous connection of the Fremantle Railway Principal Shared Path with the protected bike lanes on Wellington Street that is free from hazards,” he said.

VenuesWest chief executive David Etherton told the Guardian Express earlier this monththat the organisation was currently seeking design advice from an external consultant.

Along with the closed RAC Arena cycle path, locals have brought Elizabeth Quay and the Wellington Street Cycle Path to the attention of the City of Perth as problematic areas.

City of Perth deputy chair commissioner Gaye McMath encouraged cyclists and pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings and to conduct themselves respectfully where paths were shared.

“[In regards to Wellington Street,] conflict between pedestrians and cyclists has occurred where there is decreased space due to hoarding, and cyclists travelling at excessive speeds through the area,” she said.

“This will be rectified once the hoarding is removed, which is temporarily in place due to construction.”

She noted VenuesWest owned the RAC Arena path, and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority controlled Elizabeth Quay.

Ms McMath said the City was currently in the process of updating its Cycle Plan 2029 to reflect progress and additional opportunities that had come to light in recent years.