April 23rd, 2025Creswick-Long Point pathway calls continue

A determined group of Creswick locals is keen to progress efforts to establish a gravel cycle and pedestrian pathway running along Ascot Road and linking the town to Gillies Road.

Safety is the main motivator behind the proposal that has already garnered support from Hepburn Shire Council, Central Highlands Rural Health, state MP for Ripon Martha Haylett, and federal MP for Ballarat Catherine King.

The group is now urging more people to support their efforts to see the proposal through to reality by adding their names to their online petition, making their support known or becoming an active part of their efforts.

“We’ve got unanimous council support and strong community support,” Creswick’s Lisa Rodier says.

“What we want is a low impact path that blends in with the environment and that would run from Elizabeth Street (where the existing concrete footpath ends) to Long Point Bushland Reserve on Gillies Road.

Group members say the road is extremely dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate, yet it is heavily used by young families, children and older residents getting some exercise or dog-walking.

 “There is no walking or cycle path until you reach Elizabeth Road, and cyclists and pedestrians are forced onto the road, competing with trucks and tip traffic often going over 60km per hour,” group member Sophie Ellis says

Lisa says they’d also like to see the 80km section further out reduced to 60km.

“It’s very dangerous. There are heaps of blind corners,” says Creswick Neighbourhood Centre manager Chrissy Austin, among those eager to see a safer means to stroll or cycle into town along the road, a popular residential area for families with young children.

“The other issue is the kids who use this road to get to the bus stop along here. The traffic is fast and It is unsafe.”

“It’s really scary,” Lisa says.

“And when cars get to the edge of town, here, they just take off.

“We have costed it. There is funding available but most of the funding requires matching funding.

“We  want to submit a funding application but  first we need a management plan. We’d like to see a commitment from the shire to assist in developing a management plan.”

While safety is the primary motivator, those pushing for the path say it would also be great for encouraging locals to exercise and enjoy a more environmentally friendly means of getting about.

Lisa says that ultimately they’d like to develop the project in several stages, extending it to provide a loop connecting to the Creswick Creek and including creek-side beautification plantings as well.

Those keen to find out more about the pathway proposal and sign the online petition can go to https://chng.it/2rLPFgFnfj

Words & Image: Eve Lamb