Work underway on FAST middle section

Published on 31 July 2023

Work is underway on the next stage of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track, stretching from the Pacific Highway at Belmont South to Ocean Park Road.

Council crews poured the first section of shared pathway alongside Belmont Golf & Bowls on Friday, with plans to move gradually north in weeks to come.

The 820m stretch comprising the middle section of the FAST project, will run parallel to the existing golf driving range before running along Green Street, past Belmont Cemetery to Ocean Park Road.

Acting Project Manager Victoria Lipscombe said work on the middle section would take about seven months and cost an estimated $1.6 million.

It follows on from completion last year of the southern stage, from Hilda Street at Belmont South to Awabakal Avenue at Blacksmiths.

The start of work on the middle section was delayed while Council sought an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit.

“But that has now been obtained and I’m pleased to say our crews are making good progress,” Ms Lipscombe said.

As part of the work, Arthur and Harry Streets will be turned into cul-de-sacs, with the southern part of Green Street closed off to cars.

“We informed residents prior to work kicking off, and overall had very positive feedback about the plans, and the benefits they’ll deliver to the community,” Ms Lipscombe said.

While construction of the middle section is still underway, work is expected to begin on the final, northern section, including a new crossing of Cold Tea Creek, bird viewing areas, a viewing platform overlooking Belmont Lagoon, and an elevated boardwalk.

That section will connect with the end of the existing Fernleigh Track at Belmont, filling in a missing link of shared pathway to create a 32km active transport route from Murray Beach to Adamstown.

Ms Lipscombe said the project was due for completion in April 2024.

Go to lakemac.com.au/fast for more information and detailed plans of the work.