THE ESTABLISHMENT of a ring route road system is one of the recommendations the ACT Government will implement for better transport infrastructure in Gungahlin Town Centre.

The final planning variation to the Territory Plan was tabled today at the Legislative Assembly and includes the implementation of a number of recommendations from the Gungahlin Town Centre Planning Report.

“The Government has considered the recommendations of the Gungahlin Town Centre Planning Report, in particular the current traffic network in the heart of Gungahlin and this approval is the first step towards better transport infrastructure in the area,” Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development Simon Corbell said.

“The variation to the Territory Plan will enable the transport network to be improved to discourage through traffic and to encourage pedestrians, cyclists and bus routes along Hibberson Street.

“Cars will be encouraged away from this busy main street by the establishment of a ring route road system which surrounds the town centre.”

Mr Corbell said other planning changes for the Gungahlin town centre will assist the long-term vision of a lively centre for retail, commercial and entertainment uses, while maintaining the “urban village” character.

The variation will implement the recommendations of the report, including;
• identifying land suitable for offices to the east of the town centre to promote more employment opportunities for the residents of Gungahlin;
• extending the existing grid street pattern to undeveloped land east of the town centre to encourage walking and cycling; and,
• changing various provisions to enhance the public realm and enable small scale activities to operate in Gungahlin Place.

“The variation is based on the recommendations of the Gungahlin Town Centre Planning Report, which responded to issues raised by Gungahlin residents and businesses during three years of community engagement and planning,” Mr Corbell said.

“This decision will help address community concerns, including those relating to the traffic problems around the town centre.”

The Territory Plan variation, along with the Gungahlin Town Centre planning report and consultation report are available at www.actpla.act.gov.au.