FAQs
How are new footpaths typically prioritised?
Typically, the funding, design and construction of new footpaths is prioritised based on the location of transport routes, vehicle traffic within the street, local demographics, and pedestrian movements. Council also considers the location of the footpath and the impact on the landscape, significant trees and vegetation.
Where are footpaths located on the street and how wide are they?
New footpaths are generally located within the verge area (between the kerb and property boundary) and the alignment may vary to achieve acceptable grades and to avoid and protect services, vegetation and existing infrastructure. Generally, footpaths within the City of Mitcham are 1.5 metres wide but in some cases, sections may need to be reduced to 1.2 metres or even 1 metre due to obstructions such as significant trees or stobie poles.
How was the focus area selected and why is Hawthorndene a focus?
Hawthorndene is a large suburb with unique geography characterised by steep, sloping hills, and tree lined streets. The natural topography of land creates some challenges for providing safe walking paths. The focus area was selected based on an assessment of the area where there is a lack of footpath connectivity and where Council has received a number of requests for new footpaths from the community. Within the focus area there is limited connection, both north/south and east/west.
Previously Council would design new footpath based on a number of criteria, but this time we are wanting the community to guide the design briefs, to really understand where the missing links are, but most importantly where they are required. Any suggestions that are pinned outside of the focus area will be noted for future considerations.