Bridgewater Bridge: an opportunity for physical activity

Image: State Growth

The Tasmanian Active Living Coalition (TALC) provided feedback to the Tasmanian Planning Commission regarding the major project impact statement (MPIS) in relation to the new Bridgewater Bridge.

TALC supported the inclusion of a shared pedestrian and cyclist path and acknowledges its close alignment with the TALC’s aim and purpose.

TALC recommended stronger alignment in the MPIS between the project and preventative health frameworks such as the Healthy Tasmania Plan.

TALC also noted that the local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the development (Brighton, Derwent Valley and Glenorchy Councils) make up three of the ten most disadvantaged LGAs in Tasmania according to the Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage. It is well established that people at greater socio-economic disadvantage have reduced access and ability to participate in physical activity and therefore show disproportionately higher levels of physical inactivity.

The TALC would like to see reference to data on the current walkability/cyclability and projected demand in relation to the three LGAs to highlight gaps and opportunities in these communities.

You can read our letter in full here.