Perth Gran Fondo event given tick by City of Swan

CITY of Swan approved the International Gran Fondo Cycling event at a special meeting of council on Wednesday night.

Mayor Mick Wainwright said the council originally considered the application for the cycling event at its meeting on July 6 but deferred the decision seeking clarification on a number of issues from the organisers of the race.

“Council was aware of issues with the Gran Fondo qualifying trials which were held in March and wanted to ensure that if we give approval for the event planned for September that we do not have the same problems arise,” Cr Wainwright said.

“A number of positive changes have been promised for the upcoming event to alleviate and address the concerns raised following the trials.

“These include the contracting of two new traffic control companies, the appointment of a new CIC Event race director, improved promotional awareness leading up to the event across all media, co-ordinated operational traffic management between CIC Events and Main Roads WA, active traffic management at all key intersections and modelling of the cycle route travel times.”

Cr Wainwright said the council was concerned that closing the Lord Street and Reid Highway intersection would have an adverse impact on access to nearby churches.

“The council’s approval is dependent on this intersection not being closed but to be managed, allowing for right hand turn movements to northbound from the westbound lane of Reid Highway.

“These events can be good for the economy but we need to make sure there are the appropriate conditions in place so there is not undue inconvenience for our residents and those visiting the City of Swan.”

Mundaring Shire will hold a special council meeting next Tuesday to also address the issue.