The Australian Government’s $7 million election commitment towards a new shared pedestrian and cycle pathway connecting the suburbs of Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores, and Chain Valley Bay has taken a major step forward today, with the funding now ready to flow.
With a funding agreement now in place, the project will construct a 2.9-kilometre shared pathway along the foreshore from Griffith Street in Mannering Park, crossing the inlet channel to Kingfisher Shores and connecting to the existing path.
This will fill the critical missing link currently experienced by the community, connecting Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores, and Chain Valley Bay.
By creating a designated path for pedestrians and cyclists, the project will create a safer and more comfortable environment, reducing the risk of crashes.
It will also allow residents to better access the nearby amenities on foot or bike, while reducing the community’s environmental footprint.
The pathway is set to generate significant employment opportunities for the area, creating 30 direct jobs during construction.
It will also stimulate further employment in the community by increasing demand for services associated with tourism and active transport.
The $12.7 million project is expected to be completed in 2027 and is being funded under the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program, with Central Coast Council contributing the remaining $5.7 million.
For more information on the program visit the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“We are getting on with the job of delivering on our election commitment to deliver a new pedestrian and cycle pathway connecting Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores, and Chain Valley Bay which has been a significant priority for the community since 2010.
“I look forward to seeing this project take shape as works progress, which will support a real jobs and economic boost for the region while delivering this missing link.
“This project is a demonstration of our Government’s ongoing commitment to providing new and improved infrastructure that bolsters social inclusion and encourages communities to thrive, both economically and socially.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy:
“This project will help connect the community to friends, family, local shops, services, and the park by giving them a dedicated path to safely walk, run, and cycle.
“I made a promise to fund this vital project for the Mannering Park, Kingfisher Shores, and Chain Valley Bay communities, a longstanding priority for the region, and that’s exactly what I have delivered – with today’s funding agreement being a critical step forward.
“This project will make a real difference for our community for years to come, unlocking employment, safety, and other benefits as the new pathway comes to life.”
Quote attributable from Central Coast Council Director Infrastructure Services Boris Bolgoff:
“We know pathways are important to our residents and I want to thank the local community for their earlier feedback on what the preferred route of this shared pathway should be. Further consultation will be carried out as we move through the design phase.
“This long-awaited project is identified in Council’s Central Coast Bike Plan, and it is extremely pleasing to now have the $7 million funding from the Australian Government, to add to Council’s $5.7 million contribution, which will now deliver the project for the community.”
Quotes attributable to Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart:
“The new shared pathway is a win for our community, improving connectivity and accessibility for residents and visitors.
“Thank you to the Australian Government for their contribution of $7 million to this important project under their Priority Community Infrastructure Program, boosting Council’s commitment of $5.7 million.
“This partnership demonstrates how different levels of government working together can improve outcomes and support a great quality of life.”