By the time this column is published, a tender will have been let for the new bridge to be built in Fishermans Road, Welshmans Reef.  This means that the project is moving ahead on schedule.  The Council has been investigating the issue of pedestrian access to Newstead township from across the Loddon and we should be alert for the change to comment on any plans/suggestions produced.  We should realise that the possibility of a pedestrian bridge as an extension of Canrobert Street is just one of the options being considered.  I understand that VicRoads have been part of the discussions and that they are highly aware of the dangers of the present paths on the road bridge.

Several reports have reached Council that are relevant to Newstead and surrounding areas.  One is a Walking and Cycling Strategy which outlines Council's plans for catering for the different needs of groups of walkers and cyclists in the Shire.  It includes a Footpath Network, the Bike Lane Network (on-road bike lanes on existing roads) and The Trail Network (off-road Walking and Cycling).  it is a very comprehensive document which will provide for many years of development.  It will soon be going on public display and I encourage you to read it and tell the Council of your thoughts/reactions.

A second report is a Review of Recreation Reserves for the entire shire.  Again this is a wide-ranging analysis of the state of our Recreation Reserves, needed upgrades and an attempt at establishing priorities for remedial actions.  Council is soon to consider a recommendation that about $15,000 be allocated for a study of Newstead's Recreation Reserve, to be carried out in 2010/11 financial year.  The full report will also go on public exhibition in the near future and this will give us a chance to have our say.

The Council is currently looking urgently at plans for the bushfire "season" and will almost certainly be changing its regulations about roadside clearances of flamable immaterials.  When the policies have been approved, they will conduct an advertising campaign to communicate the new guidelines.  They are employing people to lead these processes and are working with other Shires to address the critically urgent issues involved.

Remember that I am available for consultation every Thursday in the Meeting Room at the Newstead Rural Transaction Centre , 45 Lyons Street, Newstead.

Appointments can be made by ringing the RTC on 5476 2360 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday or you can just turn up and take your chances.

Michael Redden, Councillor: Loddon Ward
Mobile 0466 004 630
Fax 5471 1748