The community will be able to have a say later this month on the transport future of Cleveland with Redland City Council endorsing the Draft Cleveland Centre Local Area Transport Plan 2025–2046 (LATP) at yesterday’s general meeting.
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said the draft plan outlined a long-term vision for improving access, safety and connectivity in and through Cleveland Centre, in support of the area’s growth.
“Cleveland is one of Redlands Coast’s key commerce, lifestyle, and cultural destinations, and its continued success depends on how easy and enjoyable it is for people to get there and to move around,” the Mayor said.
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“This plan sets out how we can future-proof Cleveland with better walking, cycling, and public transport connections, while still accommodating essential vehicle and disability access in a more balanced way.”
The Mayor said the LATP was developed in response to increasing transport pressures, population growth, and a desire to maintain the centre’s unique character.
The draft plan outlines what Council envisages the transport system needs to support the centre’s revitalisation over the next 20 years. This includes:
- Enabling transit-oriented and mixed use, medium density development within walking distance of public transport and reallocating street space to support greater density.
- Improving the centre for pedestrians and riders by improving safety and quality of streets.
- Supporting public transport facility upgrades (such as a bus/ rail interchange) and advocating for improved frequency, convenience and duration of public transport services.
- Supporting and enhancing demand responsive, rideshare and community transport services to better meet the needs of people with limited travel options.
- Managing parking to support the revitalisation of and access to the centre.
- Street space being allocated for set down areas for community transport and rideshare in core streets in the centre, as well as space for parking cycles, personal mobility devices and motorcycles.
- Addressing through-traffic. This includes upgrading Wellington Street / Panorama Drive as the main north-south route.
- Improving connectivity between the centre to the network of paths and low trafficked streets that link it to key destinations and other suburbs.
Transport Portfolio Councillor Shane Rendalls said the strategy recognised the need to reduce car dependency by making it easier for residents, workers and visitors to choose more sustainable travel modes.
“As trips to and through Cleveland are expected to rise by more than 50 per cent over the next 20 years, we need a plan that supports growth while protecting what locals love about the area – its relaxed atmosphere, wide walkable streets, and strong community identity,” Cr Rendalls said.
The draft plan will enter a community engagement phase from 30 June to 24 July.
The LATP aligns with Council’s Corporate Plan – Our Future Redlands, Redlands Coast Transport Strategy, and Cleveland Centre Master Plan, that collectively aim to guide sustainable urban growth while enhancing liveability.
