Council has continued with its strategy of repairing and building paths for pedestrians and cyclists. We want to encourage people to get out of cars and walk and cycle on improved pathways that are linked to shops, schools and recreational areas. It's good for people's health as well as keeping cars from congesting the roads.

You will be aware that the CBD to Aeroglen off-road cycle way is well underway and I know that all bike riders will be pleased that construction has now started on the Cycling and Walking Circuit. There are three sections to this circuit:

Section 1: Saltwater Creek - Starts at Greenslopes Street, goes along the southern side of Saltwater Creek to the footbridge and then on the northern side of Saltwater Creek to Pease Street. Another section starts at Little Street near Greenslopes Street, passes through a reserve then through the cemetery to Anderson Street.

Section 2: Anderson Street – Starts at MacDonnell Street along the northern side of Anderson Street to the start of Lily Creek on James Street. (I recently saw a mum struggling with a pusher and two little kids to get along this section.)

Section 3: Lily Creek – Starts at the southern side of James Street then runs along the eastern side of Lily Creek to Grove Street. The next section from Grove Street to Minnie Street is on the western side of the creek and the remaining section from Minnie Street to Florence Street is on the eastern side of the creek. There are also a number of smaller sections along Mulgrave Road/Florence Street.

Tree pruning has been underway at these locations to allow access for machinery and excavation has started despite the continuing unseasonal rainfall.

Further information about the project can be found on the website at: http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/content/communityEngagement/CairnsCyclingWalkingCircuit.html