Section 9 - Ground Transport Plan - Melbourne Airport

i. Cycling
In March 2009, the Victorian Government released the
Victorian Cycle Strategy ‘Cycling into the Future 2013–
2023’, an initiative that focused on five strategic directions:
• build networks to connect communities
• promote and encourage a culture of cycling
• reduce conflicts and risks for cyclists
• better integrate cycling with public transport
• integrate cycling into land use planning.
In 2012, the Victorian Government reinforced the same
messages with the Victorian Cycling Action Plan 2013–
2014, which also articulated guidelines for growing and
supporting cycling in Victoria.
Cycling access depends primarily on the provision of
safe and convenient bicycle routes and access to quality
end-of-trip facilities (including showers, changing rooms
and secure bicycle parking). It is an important initiative for
thriving metropolitan areas that is sustainable, carries
health benefits and reduces congestion on roads,
all of which are supported by Melbourne Airport.
However, the aviation industry’s primary focus is not
readily compatible with cycling as a strong transport
alternative. Airline passengers typically carry baggage
and generally travel a considerable distance, which
makes cycling an unrealistic option. Freight and logistics
also derive little benefit.
Melbourne Airport’s main focus in promoting active
transport is to enable its large workforce to travel to
and from work, particularly those who live close to the
airport and work during daylight hours. This will improve
workforce health and reduce traffic.
In 2002, the Victorian Department of Transport released
an updated Principal Bicycle Network (PBN), which
describes existing and proposed on-street and off-street
bicycle networks (refer Map 9.1). The PBN identified
proposed Bicycle Priority Routes that aim to provide
clear bicycle links. Priority Routes to the airport include
Melrose Drive, Centre Road and Marker Road connecting
with the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail (which runs from
Mickleham Road to the airport).
There are currently no continuous bicycle routes from
surrounding suburbs that directly connect with the airport
boundary. On-road bicycle lanes exist along Melrose
Drive in the vicinity of Link Road but do not connect
directly with the airport. While there is an informal route
along the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail that provides access
to the airport, the connections and signage could be
improved to encourage cyclists.
Melbourne Airport is adjacent to bicycle paths that are part
of Melbourne’s PBN, heading to Sunbury, Broadmeadows
and Keilor, where a substantial number of airport staff
members live. The Airport Drive extension will provide
paths that will enable a future airport link to the
Maribyrnong path, subject to VicRoads approval.
ii. Walking
The pedestrian environment at Melbourne Airport is a
critical interchange component between travel modes.
It is important to consider the pedestrian journey as both
employees and passengers must travel from their homes
to terminals and airline gates.
DRAFT
Due to the size and location of the airport precinct and
the presence of major roads and airside operations,
walking to the airport from surrounding suburbs is
considered difficult. As a result, the major pedestrian
concern is facilitating appropriate internal movements.
The airport’s existing walking network consists of internal
footpaths that are provided within the road reserve. Links
between different land uses, such as the multi-level car
park and terminal areas, are provided by elevated
pedestrian bridges where possible to reduce vehicle
and pedestrian conflict.
The major area of pedestrian circulation occurs at the
terminal frontage. This area is a major source of vehicle
activity on Arrival Drive and Departure Drive. Pedestrian
crossing movements that intersect with high vehicle
volumes present safety risks and a potential traffic
congestion concern. In addition, the presence of
uncollected luggage trolleys reduces the available space
for pedestrians waiting on Arrival Drive. The separation of
pedestrians and vehicles continues to be a strong focus,
particularly in the program of improvement/development
of forecourt precincts.
Away from the terminal precincts, the pedestrian network
provides a degree of access to key businesses and
dedicated staff and other car parks. The continued
development of the internal footpath network has been
a recent focus, including improved links along APAC
Drive reinforced by high commercial growth and large
numbers of employees.
112