Work has officially commenced on the Somerville to Baxter section of the Peninsula Trail, marking a major step towards enhancing connectivity across the Mornington Peninsula. The project has been a long-standing goal for local representatives and community members.
Cr Kate Roper (Beek Beek Ward), Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio, and Mayor Anthony Marsh gathered to celebrate the commencement of the construction. Cr Roper expressed her enthusiasm for the project, recognising the efforts of those who have supported it over the years.
“It is a great day to see work finally begin on the Somerville-Baxter section of the Peninsula Trail. There have been many working over the years for this day, and I would also like to mention previous Councillor Julie Morris for earlier advocacy. I can’t wait to see the community enjoying the connection to Frankston,”
Roper told STPL News.
Mayor Anthony Marsh highlighted the importance of the trail for the community and the Peninsula Trails project.
“The Somerville-Baxter Trail was Council’s first priority in terms of filling in the missing links of the Peninsula Trails project, and we are extremely grateful to both the Australian and Victorian Governments for providing funding.”
“The Victorian Government contributed $3 million and the Australian Government committed $2 million. Council contributed the remaining $2.8 million to allow this important project to go ahead,”
He also stressed the long-standing need for the shared path, which will improve access and connectivity for local communities.
“Our community has been calling for this shared path for many years. It will dramatically improve access, connectivity and amenity for our Western Port communities, connecting up existing paths and giving our residents the chance to ditch the car and travel safely by foot or by bike to school, the shops or work.”
“It will also further cement the Peninsula’s reputation as a cycling and walking destination, attracting off-peak visitors lured by the opportunity to walk or cycle off-road from central Melbourne – via the Bay Trail and Peninsula Link Trail – all the way to Balnarring,”
He added.
Paul Mercurio MP, who has been a strong advocate for the project, echoed the excitement.
“This is absolutely fantastic news and something the community has been asking for and wanting for some time. A lot of people have worked tirelessly over the last few years to bring this about and I thank them all.”
“I pushed hard when I was on Council to get the path not just to Baxter but all the way to Golf Links Road to join up with the Frankston path – meaning we can go all the way into Frankston on the shared bike path,”
Mercurio said.
“I am super excited to see the work begin and cannot wait to walk the path when completed.”
Construction is now underway, and the Somerville to Baxter Bike Trail is set to deliver improved local connectivity, promote healthy active travel, and attract visitors to the region.
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