Here's what you told us about how you use footpaths

Community consultation was undertaken between 24 March and 19 April 2026 to inform the development of Manningham’s Footpath Policy, with a focus on how Council prioritises new footpaths across the municipality.

Engagement operated at the IAP2 ‘Consult’ level, seeking feedback on prioritisation criteria, accessibility, connectivity and local character, while making clear that site-specific requests and maintenance issues were outside scope.

Participation

Approximately 200 responses were received through:

  • Online survey
  • Written submissions
  • Advisory group engagement
  • In-person discussions at Warrandyte Festival and Park Orchards Market
  • QR coded-signage at 15 activity centres and reserves

Participation was higher in Warrandyte and Park Orchards, with lower response rates from younger residents and culturally diverse communities.

Key insights

1. Strong support for improved accessibility and safety
Participants emphasised the importance of safe, inclusive footpaths, particularly for people with disability, carers, and older residents.

2. Connectivity is a priority
Footpaths are valued for connecting people to shops, schools, services and public transport, as well as for recreation and wellbeing.

3. Desire for clearer and more transparent decision-making
There is strong interest in understanding how footpath decisions are made, with a preference for greater visibility and explanation rather than direct decision-making control.

4. Local context matters
Green Wedge communities expressed strong preference for treatments that reflect rural character, including support for alternative surfaces in appropriate locations.

5. No single solution fits all
Different user groups prioritise different outcomes, reinforcing the need for a flexible, fit-for-place approach.

Out of scope feedback

Some feedback related to maintenance, lighting and site-specific requests. These have been referred to relevant service areas and will inform future work where appropriate.

How feedback informed the policy

Consultation outcomes have strengthened the policy by:

  • Improving transparency
    Providing clearer guidance on how footpaths are prioritised and assessed
  • Balancing accessibility and local character
    Strengthening direction on adapting to different contexts, including Green Wedge areas
  • Refining material selection guidance
    Supporting standard materials in high-demand areas, with flexibility for alternative treatments
  • Strengthening accessibility focus
    Increasing emphasis on inclusive design and practical application of accessibility standards
  • Maintaining flexibility
    Establishing a high-level framework supported by detailed assessment tools, allowing adaptation over time

Next steps

  • Present to Council for adoption 30 June 2026
  • Implement through capital works planning
  • Communicate outcomes to the community

Conclusion

The consultation has informed a clearer, more transparent and more balanced Footpath Policy, supporting consistent and defensible decision-making across Manningham.


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