SHANE Rattenbury has announced the start of works to upgrade paths and walkways within Bowen Park, to improve accessibility and amenity along the Kingston Foreshore.

“These works will improve access and safety for pedestrians and cyclists in this popular park on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin and provide an important connection between Barton and the newly redeveloped Kingston Foreshore,” Shane said.

“The $600,000 upgrades will see a variety of work including the upgrade of existing shared dirt paths to concrete paths, installation of new lighting along the paths and new signage.

“The paths will provide a safer and more even surface for pedestrians and cyclists, while the lighting will improve safety for those passing through the park at night.

“As part of the works, 14 trees in the park will be removed, some of which are in poor health, and several other existing trees will be pruned. There will be 15 new trees planted in the park to replace the removed trees, provide shade and improve the amenity of the area.

“During construction the path along the Lake Burley Griffin foreshore between the western side of the Waterfront Apartments complex and the Bowen Park car park will be closed, as will the footpath on the western side of Eastlake Parade between Wentworth Avenue and the Lake Burley Griffin foreshore.”

Works are scheduled to be complete in December 2015.