Residents are campaigning to improve this important connection in South Hobart
The ‘Bumpy Track’ (lower Marlyn Rd) is used by children, walkers, commuters, cargo-bikers and cyclists. It has lacked maintenance for too long. The erosion and rutting has become dangerous.
The land is owned by Cascade, but the City of Hobart can maintain it, like other nearby tracks.
Cycling / Walking Access
The bumpy track provides access to the Hobart Rivulet Track, 5 schools/childcares along the Rivulet and access to the CBD. It’s used by people living on Marlyn Rd, Avon Rd, Jubilee Rd, Saunders Cr. It’s also used by people living on Strickland Av. (as Strickland has a high traffic volume and no footpaths).
It is so rough that it destroys bikes, is a tripping hazard and un-ridable for many.
Bushfire Access
There is only one route out of Marlyn Rd / Strickland. People living on Marlyn Rd, Saunders Cr, Avon Rd and Jubilee Rd need to drive uphill to Strickland Av. to escape a bushfire. Many residents expect that Strickland Av. will then be too congested.
It is unclear how the ‘bumpy track’ can be used during a bushfire. The bumpy track should be opened to cars during a bushfire emergency to allow people to escape.
Where’s it up to?
A petition received 216 signatories within a few weeks. It asked that the City of Hobart:
- Improve and re-grade the bumpy track so it is safe for all users
- Consider opening the bumpy track during a bushfire emergency
At the City of Hobart council meeting on 30 October 2023 a motion to receive the petition and ask for a report to be returned to Council was passed unaminously.
More info
The closed change.org petition
Minutes of the City of Hobart council meeting 30 October 2023