Foxton Beach has a new shared pathway, bringing plans for an eight-kilometre loop trail around the coastal community a step closer to reality.

The new 3.5 kilometre chip-seal shared pathway runs along Palmer Road from Cousins Avenue Reserve to Foxton Beach Road, and provides a safe alternative for people on bikes and pedestrians.

Horowhenua District Council’s Shared Pathways Project Manager, Therese Barber, said the pathway is ideal for walkers, joggers, mobility devices and people on bikes.

“Shared pathways offer lots of benefits for our community. Roads are safer for vulnerable users, such as pedestrians and people on bikes, making it easier for people of all ages to walk, roll or ride to work or school. We’re healthier and enjoy the outdoors more, and the pathways make our district an even better place to live.”

Ms Barber said completing the Palmer Road pathway was a key part of Council’s plans to safely connect Foxton Beach’s parks and open spaces.

“The Palmer Road pathway combines with other existing paths and trails to create a loop linking Cousins Avenue Reserve, Holben Reserve, the Sunset Walkway, Flagstaff Reserve and Ferry Reserve. The next steps will be to enhance ease and convenience of use by improving the connections between these places, so people can experience all that Foxton Beach has to offer.”

The Foxton Beach loop is part of Council’s shared pathways project, which aims to connect the communities of Horowhenua along a network of safe and accessible walking and cycling paths.

“Horowhenua currently has 17 kilometres of shared pathways, 5.5 kilometres of which have been constructed since the beginning of last year. Long term, Council sees significant potential to construct more pathways and improve community connections,” Ms Barber said.

“As the shared pathways network develops, it will enhance safe access throughout our district, and showcase our natural and cultural assets for domestic and international tourism by eventually connecting with Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail, and Te Araroa, the national walkway.”

Ms Barber said Council will work with communities to identify and plan the best routes for more shared pathways.

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