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2017-06-06 - S&O Agenda Attachment 1 to Item 1 - Noosa Transport Strategy 2017-2027
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Services & Organisation Committee
6 June 2017
Item 1, ATTACHMENT 1
Noosa
Transport Strategy
2017 – 2027
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Section 2
© Noosa Council 2017 www.noosa.qld.gov.au General Enquiries: 8.15 am - 5.00 pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) By telephone: (07) 5329 6500 (including After Hours emergencies) By email: [email protected] Fax: (07) 5329 6501 Street Address: 9 Pelican Street, TEWANTIN Postal address: PO Box 141, TEWANTIN QLD 4565 May 2017
Section 3
Contents
Noosa’s Transport Vision 4
Principles 4
Challenges 5
Desired outcomes 7
Community and stakeholder feedback 9
Prioritising the solutions 11
What’s already underway 12
What’s coming up first 13
Park and Ride 14
Car Parking 14
Noosa Style Bus 16
Walk and Ride to School Program 17
Priority Transport Lanes 18
What else 19
Innovation 20
Evaluation 21
Section 4
Noosa’s Transport Vision
Noosa Shire enjoys an efficient, free flowing, innovative transport
system that enhances resident and visitor experiences, and results in
sustainable environmental outcomes.
Principles
1 Encourage transport options that meet the needs of both
locals and visitors.
2 Prioritise our focus on moving people and goods rather
than on moving cars.
3 Provide infrastructure and services that are designed to
give priority to pedestrians, cyclists, scooters and public
transport over private cars.
4 Improve the safety and amenity of pedestrians and
cyclists in our transport infrastructure.
5 Address peak time traffic congestion by reducing traffic
rather than increasing road capacity.
6 Accommodate changes in transportation technology.
7 Align our organisational transport options and usage
with Council’s Zero Emissions Strategy and the above
principles.
8 Design for, encourage and facilitate transport options that
reduce the emissions produced by our community.
4
J e e
Noosa’s Transport Vision
Noosa Shire enjoys an efficient, free flowing, innovative transport
system that enhances resident and visitor experiences, and results in
sustainable environmental outcomes.
Principles
1 Encourage transport options that meet the needs of both
locals and visitors.
2 Prioritise our focus on moving people and goods rather
than on moving cars.
3 Provide infrastructure and services that are designed to
give priority to pedestrians, cyclists, scooters and public
transport over private cars.
4 Improve the safety and amenity of pedestrians and
cyclists in our transport infrastructure.
5 Address peak time traffic congestion by reducing traffic
rather than increasing road capacity.
6 Accommodate changes in transportation technology.
7 Align our organisational transport options and usage
with Council's Zero Emissions Strategy and the above
principles.
8 Design for, encourage and facilitate transport options that
reduce the emissions produced by our community.
ASection 5
Challenges
Some of the key transport challenges in Noosa are summarised below.
Number of Visitors Congestion at peak times
In holiday seasons, on long weekends and coinciding Buses currently get stuck in congestion
with major events, the pressure on Noosa’s road during peak periods and offer no efficiency
network and car parking spaces becomes strained over the private car other than not having to
and open space gives way to parked cars. find a car park.
Data from Tourism Noosa indicates that in 2016, Regardless of how many people adopt
approximately 58% of all visitors to Noosa were alternative transport modes, it may not
day trip visitors. Currently, the vast majority of day result in noticeably less cars on the road
visitors arrive by car. because spare capacity and empty car
parking spaces are soon filled by others.
Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Regional Councils
combined are forecast to grow by close to 437,000 Creating more capacity on the road
network and more car parking spaces in
residents over the next 25 years, to a combined
key destinations can attract more people
2041 population of 1,150,000 (Draft SEQ Regional
than the destinations can reasonably
Plan, 2016). This is likely to significantly increase the
accommodate.
number of day visitors to Noosa.
Car Dependence Topography & Climate
For most people, driving a car is a way of life and Noosa includes some significant hilly terrain which
their preferred mode of transport. Cars seem more can be challenging for pedestrians and cyclists.
convenient and affordable than public transport Noosa’s subtropical climate is part of its attraction
although the true costs of running a car (purchase as a place to live, however, at times the temperature
price, rego, maintenance, fuel etc.) are not always is not conducive to active transport (walking and
considered when making a journey by car. cycling). Summer temperatures often rise above
A combined 44% of jobs in Noosa Shire are 30 degrees and there are frequent rainy days.
within the retail, hospitality, accommodation, and Reducing emissions from transport activity and
healthcare sectors. The nature of this work (shift developing a resilient transport network will be
work, late hours) means that active transport needed to respond to energy risks and climate
(walking and cycling) may not be appropriate change.
and public transport is unlikely to be available.
Funding Shortfalls in services and infrastructure
Unlike other parts of South East Approximately one-third of Noosa’s population is in
Queensland, Noosa Shire is not reliant on the hinterland area with limited to no public transport
or predicting a high level of growth over services. The Noosa hinterland also has a higher
the next 20 years. Given the limitation proportion of young people aged 5-19 years.
on future development, the expectation The large TransLink buses, and also advertising on
for new infrastructure is also limited. buses, do not fit with the Noosa look and feel.
State investment in Noosa’s roads and A connected off-road pathway network is needed to
transport infrastructure, as a low growth cater for mobility scooters, cyclists and pedestrians.
area, will be dwarfed by investment Noosa’s many roundabouts can make it difficult to
further to the South. safely cross the road on foot or by bike.
5
Section 6
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Sa ler Rca as” DRT LS BeSection 7
Desired Outcomes
1
Residents and workers of Noosa Shire are able to go about their
everyday business without having to be reliant on private vehicles.
2 T he transport network is designed to facilitate and encourage an
overall modal shift away from private car use towards more sustainable
transport modes including walking, cycling, public transport, electric
vehicles and motor scooters/cycles.
3 The
transport system supports the preferred pattern of development
including the local centres hierarchy, and is consistent with our planning
scheme.
4 Key
regional destinations such as hospitals, airports and universities are
readily accessible by public transport from Noosa Shire.
5 All
schools are safely and conveniently accessible by walking, cycling
and public transport.
6 Parking is closely managed through effective controls.
7 There
has been a change in behaviour by people in Noosa with a
reduction in the number choosing to drive and park cars in congested
coastal areas.
8 Park-and-Ride
facilities have been provided to assist with managing
visitor travel demand where supported by transport services.
9 The
transport system supports the local lifestyle and also tourism by
delivering both active and public transport infrastructure that meets the
needs of locals and visitors.
10 Local public transport routes offer efficient and frequent services.
11 Road crossings and associated pedestrian networks are safe and
accessible for mobility scooters, cyclists and pedestrians.
12 The community at all levels is educated about the costs and benefits of
their travel choices, allowing people to make informed decisions.
13 Alternative transport is cost effective for users and providers as
compared with private car use.
14 New technologies are being used in our transport solutions.
15 Transport initiatives result in significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
7
Desired Outcomes
1 Residents and workers of Noosa Shire are able to go about their
everyday business without having to be reliant on private vehicles.
2. The transport network is designed to facilitate and encourage an
overall modal shift away from private car use towards more sustainable
transport modes including walking, cycling, public transport, electric
vehicles and motor scooters/cycles.
3 The transport system supports the preferred pattern of development
including the local centres hierarchy, and is consistent with our planning
scheme.
4 Key regional destinations such as hospitals, airports and universities are
readily accessible by public transport from Noosa Shire.
5 _ Allschools are safely and conveniently accessible by walking, cycling
and public transport.
6 Parking is closely managed through effective controls.
7 There has been a change in behaviour by people in Noosa with a
reduction in the number choosing to drive and park cars in congested
coastal areas.
8 Park-and-Ride facilities have been provided to assist with managing
visitor travel demand where supported by transport services.
Q The transport system supports the local lifestyle and also tourism by
delivering both active and public transport infrastructure that meets the
needs of locals and visitors.
10 Local public transport routes offer efficient and frequent services.
11 Road crossings and associated pedestrian networks are safe and
accessible for mobility scooters, cyclists and pedestrians.
12 The community at all levels is educated about the costs and benefits of
their travel choices, allowing people to make informed decisions.
13 Alternative transport is cost effective for users and providers as
compared with private car use.
14 New technologies are being used in our transport solutions.
15 Transport initiatives result in significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
g y
7Section 8
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- — \\ ene. AW SeSection 9
Community and Stakeholder Feedback
Noosa Council engaged with consultants, key stakeholders and the community to understand
both the transport challenges in Noosa as well as the possible solutions. Council has welcomed the
hundreds of ideas and suggestions on addressing Noosa’s traffic and transport issues.
The Noosa community and key stakeholders were very active through the Your Say Noosa website,
writing letters, sending emails and talking to Councillors and staff. At last count, Council received over
1,200 comments during the consultation process.
Residents, employees and visitors alike are becoming increasingly frustrated with traffic congestion
and parking difficulties in Noosa’s hotspots during peak holiday periods, on weekends and also
during major events. In 2016, approximately 58% of visitors to Noosa were day-trip visitors with the
vast majority arriving by car.
Population growth south of Noosa Shire is expected to increase by 30% over the next 10 years,
thereby increasing the pressure on Noosa’s road network even further. For visitors who arrive by car,
the message could be “give your car a holiday while you relax in Noosa”.
Congestion in key hotspots cannot be addressed in isolation. Rather, any changes to car parking or
road configurations needs to address the impact on surrounding areas. In order to maintain the laid-
back Noosa lifestyle, it is important to resist the pressure to increase capacity for more cars and more
car parking.
While congestion and car parking may be an issue for coastal areas, lack of public transport services
and long distances between town centres is a concern for some hinterland residents. Hinterland
residents are particularly car dependent. Dispersed populations often make public transport unviable.
9
Section 10
A regional, low-density area like Noosa is unlikely to experience the levels of public transport use
that high density metropolitan areas enjoy. Demand responsive transport solutions, as well as other
community ride sharing services, have the potential to offer alternative transport options to ensure
residents are able to access key services and facilities.
There are a number of transport-related areas which fall under the jurisdiction of the Queensland
State Government. These include: public transport (bus and train services), plus certain main roads
and associated road intersections. The Noosa National Park, including the car park at the end of Park
Road, is also State controlled. Noosa Council will continue to collaborate with and advocate to the
relevant State Government bodies to address transport matters which fall outside of Council’s direct
control.
Transport is a complex issue and agreement on solutions can be contentious. The
development of this Transport Strategy has been informed by the suggestions of residents and
key stakeholders plus the expert advice of traffic and transport consultants.
10
Section 11
Prioritising the solutions
In order to address current and emerging transport and traffic issues, a change is needed
in how residents and visitors travel in Noosa Shire. This Transport Strategy summarises
approaches that act as incentives for change as well as actions that act as disincentives to
those who increase traffic congestion and parking problems at peak times. To discourage travel
by car, there needs to be a range of convenient alternative transport and parking options on
offer.
Some initiatives are designed to bring about a voluntary change in travel choices. Such
incentives include:
• park-and-ride services
• cycling and pedestrian pathway improvements
• ride sharing and carpooling
• public transport improvements.
Other initiatives are designed to increase the cost and/or reduce the attractiveness of travelling
by car compared to sustainable transport modes such as walking, cycling or catching public
transport. Disincentives to travelling by car could include:
• time-limited car parking
• paid car parking.
The purpose of paid parking would be to provide a disincentive to travelling by car and may
also provide revenue to fund alternative transport options.
Noosa Council seeks to actively commit to environmentally, socially and economically
sustainable transport and be bold in this commitment. Council has prioritised strategies based
on the following assessment criteria:
• What is currently the most pressing issue?
• What is “do-able” in the short term (1-2 years)?
• What will make a significant impact?
• What is cost effective?
• What fits best with the Noosa look-and-feel?
Many of the strategies are subject to investigation, funding and trials. The Transport Strategy
will see Council try some solutions (such as Park-and-Ride services during peak congestion
times), introduce some new ideas (a Noosa style shuttle bus), along with some car parking
changes. Some trials will be successful, some may be temporary and others may not work,
but Council is striving to achieve the transport vision for Noosa of an efficient, free flowing,
innovative transport system that enhances resident and visitor experiences, and results in
sustainable environmental outcomes.
11
Section 12
What’s already underway?
There are a number of transport initiatives which are “business as usual” for Noosa Council.
These are already addressing transport challenges and improving transport outcomes for the
Shire. Existing initiatives include:
• Christmas and Easter Free Holiday Buses
• Council Cabs for people with a disability and people over 60 years old
• Boreen-Point Tewantin Flexilink
• Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant bus stops and bus shelters
• Collaboration and partnerships with TransLink for public transport service
improvements (e.g. Electric bus trial)
• Collaboration with Tourism Noosa to focus on high value tourism
• Council’s Emission Reduction Policy and collaboration with Zero Emissions Noosa
• The new Noosa Plan and its implications for transport, traffic and car parking
• Recommendations from the Noosa Traffic Study 2016-2036
• Wayfinding signage
• Scooter and motorbike parking
• Off-road pathways (e.g. Ben Lexcen Drive)
The Transport Strategy has links to regional plans and other Noosa Council strategies as
detailed in Attachment 1: Background: Transport Strategy Development.
12
Section 13
What’s coming up first?
The following strategies have been proposed over the next 1-2 years (2017/18 & 2018/19).
1. Investigate Park-and-Ride services and conduct a detailed study to determine the
demand, preferred location, and likely capacity of a successful Park-and-Ride facility
with links to shuttle services.
2. Subject to investigation, and in keeping with the Noosa look-and-feel, introduce car
parking management controls (e.g.paid parking) in congested areas. Paid parking may
allow for variable controls for residents and non-residents, peak and off-peak periods,
and paid and free parking at Park-and-Ride facilities.
3. Subject to discussions with TransLink, trial a high frequency Noosa style shuttle bus to
service key destinations.
4. Implement Walk and Ride to School programs with supportive schools that experience
significant traffic and congestion issues.
5. Investigate the feasibility of priority transport lanes for sustainable transport modes
(buses, bicycles, scooters, electric vehicles etc).
In addition there are a number of medium to long term strategies (some of which are
dependent on the implementation of these short term strategies) which will be reviewed as part
of the ongoing Transport Strategy prioritisation process.
The Noosa Council Zero Emissions Strategy is targeted specifically at Council operations and
activities. Council acknowledges its role in providing leadership for the community’s transition
towards a zero emissions future and aims to inspire change by demonstrating best practice
options to the community.
13
Section 14
Park-and-Ride
Consultant Parsons Brinckerhoff (2016) identified Park-and-Ride as a key strategy to manage traffic
demand associated with travel within Noosa. This would provide visitors, employees and residents
with a location to park their vehicles before they enter the busy coastal areas and hence reduce
congestion and demand on local feeder streets.
To date Noosa Council has trialled temporary Park-and-Ride services during peak times such
as Christmas and Easter by utilising sports grounds and ovals.
Key features of a successful Park-and-Ride are:
• located on main arterial roads on approaches to the busy Noosa coastal areas
• serviced with frequent, quality bus links to key destinations
• security/surveillance, visitor information and a kiosk/cafe may add to the attraction and
usability of the facility
• more affordable and convenient than parking in the congested areas near the beach or river.
Council will conduct a detailed study to determine the demand, preferred location, and likely capacity
of a successful Park-and-Ride facility with links to shuttle services.
A Park-and-Ride is necessary for Noosa as it is in many other popular small
destinations around the world. Day trippers to Noosa will always be a problem
unless visitors get the message that the town parking is full during holiday periods.
Your Say Respondent
Car Parking
Consultants Parsons Brinkerhoff (2016) recommended that Noosa Council consider managing the
supply of car parking rather than continuing the philosophy of supplying free parking in response to
demand.
Management controls include:
• Control by time (e.g. short term vs. long term)
• Control by price (free vs. paid)
• Control by type (e.g. resident vs. non-resident).
They note that it is important to resist the pressure to increase capacity for more cars and more
car parking. It is neither affordable nor practical to attempt to cater for all traffic during our busiest
periods. Rather, it is more important to provide for a high level of service during the rest of the year
and create alternative transport options for peak periods, such as free bus and Park-and-Ride services.
In an effort to change travel behaviour and reduce traffic congestion, Council will be investigating car
parking management controls with a view to implementing changes to car parking in the next 1-2
14
Section 15
I would like to see driving/parking restricted in Hasting St. Shuttle buses to drop
off from all directions (smaller buses). I may go there more often if I could hop on
a bus & be assured of another to get me back home. – Your Say Respondent
years.
A locality based approach will be used to find solutions for each precinct based on the level of
traffic congestion and car parking availability. Consideration will be given to residents and non-
residents, Park-and-Ride services, peak periods and off-peak periods, as well as the impact on
surrounding areas.
Any management controls involving paid parking would be in-keeping with the Noosa
Some drivers think the cost of a parking ticket to overstay the 2-hour limit in
Hastings Street is “cheap parking” - Your Say Respondents
Design Principles, and would utilise ‘new generation’ payment systems such as number
plate recognition, smart phone apps, etc. as opposed to traditional parking meters. Given the
advances in technology, it may be possible to turn on and off paid parking depending on the
levels of traffic congestion and demand for car parking.
Paid parking is designed to be a disincentive to driving, therefore revenue generated from paid
parking could be used to fund alternative transport options such as Park-and-Ride services,
Noosa style shuttle bus, walking and cycling paths, etc.
15
Section 16
Noosa Style Bus
In many parts of the world, the local transport has become an iconic not-to-be-missed
experience associated with the place itself. Examples are the London red double decker bus,
San Francisco cable car or Island “coconut” bus.
The aim of the Noosa style shuttle bus is to provide a not-to-be-missed transport experience
associated with a visit to Noosa. However, more importantly, it may assist in alleviating traffic
congestion in our most popular coastal areas.
Consultants Parsons Brinkerhoff (2016) sourced from the travel site tripadvisor.com, the
following map showing all the restaurants, hotels and other tourist accommodation recorded by
that site in the coastal area of Noosa.
Restaurants and accommodation - Noosa Coastal Area
Passengers could jump on the shuttle bus without the hassle of circling for a car park. Branding
would ensure that the shuttle is instantly recognisable for the service route it provides.
Imagery that evokes positive emotions or pride in our place, like that used on Noosa’s mobile
library, might be considered for a Noosa style bus.
I like the idea of small frequent electric shuttle buses with Noosa branding.
If done correctly these could become a tourist attraction in themselves! –
Your Say respondent
16
Section 17
Walk and Ride to School Program
Traffic congestion at drop off and pick up times is an issue for some schools in Noosa Shire.
Students being dropped off at school in the morning also coincide with people getting to work
which in turn creates traffic and congestion in some areas of the Noosa road network.
A Walk and Ride to School Program is a behaviour change program which encourages
parents, carers, and teachers to consider using alternatives to driving a car to school. These
include walking, cycling, scooters, skateboards, carpooling or catching a bus. Schools are
frequently catchment based, meaning many people live within a few kilometres of their school.
This makes it ideal to encourage walking or riding bikes and scooters. Active travel to school
may not be possible all the time, but replacing even one or two trips a week with a sustainable
mode can make a difference.
Benefits of a Walk and Ride to School Program:
• Reduces traffic congestion and parking issues around the school.
• Safety when students walk and cycle in a group or with a parent. Cars around the
school gate pose a significant danger to students. Less cars makes the school a safer
place.
• Increases physical activity. A Walk and Ride to School Program is a great initiative for
health and well-being.
• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with driving cars.
• People out and about walking and cycling create a sense of community and foster
social interaction. This means people can keep an eye out for each others’ well-being.
The weekday commute times could be eased greatly by encouraging children
to cycle or walk to school. Most schools have good cycle paths running nearby –
Your Say Respondent
Park and Walk/Ride to School days, class competitions, bicycle education, and national event
days could be part of the solution to address congestion around schools.
The focus will be on primary schools. Establishing healthy habits for travelling to and from
school at a young age will hopefully continue into high school. Schools will be invited to
participate through an expression of interest process.
The success of the program will be dependent on support from school communities, in
particular those schools that take ownership of the program to reduce traffic congestion and
create a safer, healthier more vibrant school environment.
17
Section 18
Priority Transport Lanes
A priority transport lane is designed to provide an express lane for sustainable transport modes such
as buses, bicycles, e-bicycles, electric vehicles, etc.
Council received community feedback suggesting a priority transport lane along Noosa Parade
and/or Noosa Drive. A dedicated lane generally improves the speed and reliability for buses
and operates during peak hours. An efficient priority transport lane could potentially make using
sustainable transport (buses, bikes, etc.) a more attractive option than driving.
In general our road network is pretty good. If you really want to get people out
of cars and onto buses, scooters, bikes etc. do something very brave and replace
the parallel parking with priority transit lanes for everything other than cars (e.g.
Noosa Parade). You still have a problem however if you have two lane bridges –
Your Say Respondent
Council will thoroughly investigate the feasibility of a priority transport lanes at suitable
locations.
As with any traffic solution, there are potential impacts and flow-on effects that would need to
be considered:
• limited space and narrow bridges which create issues for merging traffic
• potential conflict between bicycle riders and buses
• maintaining the Noosa look and feel
• loss of existing on-street parking.
18
Section 19
What else?
The Transport strategy will be reviewed at least annually in keeping with rapidly advancing
transport innovations to ensure the strategies remain relevant.
The following strategies, to be considered further over the next few years, are in no particular
order and will be reviewed as part of the ongoing Transport Strategy prioritisation process.
• Consider ways to encourage the use of motorbikes, scooters and electric bicycles
including priority parking.
• Review and prioritise all missing links of walking and cycling pathways.
• Collaborate with community/private sector to establish electric charging stations at key
locations.
• Develop a Noosa visitor transport information pack containing details on how to have a
“car free & carefree” holiday in Noosa.
• Investigate use of existing pathways as a network for motorised scooters as well as for
walkers and cyclists.
• Consider ways to increase the uptake of commuter cycling.
• Consider options for the creation of car free or shared zones which restrict vehicle
access to a street or area for the exclusive use of pedestrians and cyclists.
• Consider expanding the Flexilink service to other locations e.g. Kin Kin
• Investigate the potential for Noosa Council to operate its own public transport services.
• Conduct an audit of community buses (Aged Care, resorts, RSL, school buses etc) to
identify opportunities for synergies with meeting shire-wide transport needs.
• Encourage the development of a suite of Apps (cycling, park & ride locations,
pathways etc.) to facilitate uptake of sustainable transport.
• Investigate establishment of community/private sector bike hire scheme at specific
locations (electric/non-electric).
• Investigate using public transport ferries on the Noosa river.
• Investigate the provision of End of Trip facilities (showers, lockers, bicycle parking etc.)
in the public domain where there are high employment numbers e.g. Noosa Junction.
• Investigate alternative access options to Noosa Woods.
• Investigate alternative access options to Little Cove.
• Research and investigate smart technology transport solutions and their application to
Noosa e.g. Autonomous or driverless buses.
19
The Transport strategy will be reviewed at least annually in keeping with rapidly advancing
transport innovations to ensure the strategies remain relevant.
The following strategies, to be considered further over the next few years, are in no particular
order and will be reviewed as part of the ongoing Transport Strategy prioritisation process.
- Consider ways to encourage the use of motorbikes, scooters and electric bicycles
including priority parking.
* — Review and prioritise all missing links of walking and cycling pathways.
- — Collaborate with community/private sector to establish electric charging stations at key
locations.
* Develop a Noosa visitor transport information pack containing details on how to have a
“car free & carefree” holiday in Noosa.
- — Investigate use of existing pathways as a network for motorised scooters as well as for
walkers and cyclists.
* — Consider ways to increase the uptake of commuter cycling.
* — Consider options for the creation of car free or shared zones which restrict vehicle
access to a street or area for the exclusive use of pedestrians and cyclists.
* — Consider expanding the Flexilink service to other locations e.g. Kin Kin
+ — Investigate the potential for Noosa Council to operate its own public transport services.
* Conduct an audit of community buses (Aged Care, resorts, RSL, school buses etc) to
identify opportunities for synergies with meeting shire-wide transport needs.
* — Encourage the development of a suite of Apps (cycling, park & ride locations,
pathways etc.) to facilitate uptake of sustainable transport.
- — Investigate establishment of community/private sector bike hire scheme at specific
locations (electric/non-electric).
- — Investigate using public transport ferries on the Noosa river.
+ — Investigate the provision of End of Trip facilities (showers, lockers, bicycle parking etc.)
in the public domain where there are high employment numbers e.g. Noosa Junction.
- — Investigate alternative access options to Noosa Woods.
- — Investigate alternative access options to Little Cove.
- — Research and investigate smart technology transport solutions and their application to
Noosa e.g. Autonomous or driverless buses.
19Section 20
Innovation
Transport and transport services around the world are rapidly evolving. Noosa Council has a history
of being innovative and embracing new ideas and technologies. Council aims to continue to embrace
innovative transport solutions and keep a watching brief on smart technology and transport research to
address our transport service and infrastructure needs.
Innovations have the potential to significantly change the way we get from A to B. Below are just a few
examples of the future in transport.
• Autonomous vehicles are expected to be a reality with car manufacturers and technology
companies anticipating that fully autonomous vehicles will become available for purchase by
2020 (NRMA, 2016). The potential benefits of autonomous vehicles include:
- Improved road safety through eliminating human error which accounts for 90% of car
accidents in the United States.
- Reduced congestion through vehicle to vehicle communication.
- Parking efficiencies with autonomous vehicles dropping off passengers and proceeding to
remote parking locations.
- Greater mobility for those people unable to drive a car (older people, children etc.).
• The Western Australian government is trailing a driverless electric shuttle bus in Perth. The tourist
shuttle will transport up to 15 passengers and has a maximum speed of 45km/hr. The driverless
bus is fitted with multi-sensor technology that allows it to map the environment, detect obstacles
on the road and interpret traffic signs
• Data sensors in the road network which allow vehicles to communicate and interact, locate
available parking spaces, respond to traffic congestion, and even turn on and off street lighting.
• Mobile phone apps which provide updates regarding traffic congestion, Park-and-Ride locations,
parking availability etc.
• Smart bicycles that can pair with a smart phone to provide the cyclist with directions, alert cyclists
to passing cars and even act as a charging dock for USB devices.
• Transportation as a Service (TaaS) or Mobility as a Service (MaaS) – Similar to a mobile phone
plan or music subscription, TaaS/MasS takes a value based approach to understanding individual
lifestyle needs and then designs personalised products and transport services. It brings every
kind of transport option together into a single intuitive mobile app which seamlessly combines all
transport options from various providers.
20
Section 21
Evaluation
The Noosa Transport Strategy has a ten year timespan and will be reviewed at least annually in
keeping with transport innovations.
Where possible, key performance indicators will be developed and baseline data will be collected.
Example performance indicators may include (but are not limited to):
• Number and percentage reduction in private vehicles in congestion hot spots at peak
periods
• Number and percentage reduction in primary school students being driven to school
• Number and percentage increase in public transport use in Noosa
• Number and percentage increase in taxi and ride sharing use in Noosa
• Number and percentage increase in cycling and scooter use in Noosa
There are a number of stakeholders relevant to the success of the Transport Strategy including
TransLink, Tourism Noosa, various community groups and business associations, and private
operators. Throughout the life of the Transport Strategy, stakeholder feedback will be sought as part
of the evaluation process.
The monitoring of key actions will ensure that the Transport Strategy remains focused and effective.
21
Section 22
Noosa Transport Strategy
Attachment 1:
Background
Transport Strategy Development
Noosa Transport Strategy
Attachment 1:
Background
Transport Strategy Development
:
@ | COUNCILSection 23
Transport Strategy Development
In an effort to ensure Noosa’s residents, employees and visitors can get where they want to
go, when they want to go, Noosa Council has developed a draft 10 year Transport Strategy
with a vision for Noosa Shire to enjoy an efficient, free-flowing transport system that
enhances resident and visitor experiences.
Informed by the work of Parsons Brinckerhoff, in November 2016 Council adopted a
Transport Policy to guide all Council activities and operations in relation to transport and
related infrastructure.
The Transport Strategy will take a multi-modal approach with an emphasis on several
transport modes (including walking, cycling, scooters, bus, train, community transport) to
ensure that residents, employees and visitors can choose their preferred means of transport.
Previous Work
Much work has previously been done in the area of transport planning for Noosa Shire. This
includes planning done between 2008 and 2013 by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council
while Noosa was included in that local government area. Previous work includes:
Transport and Road Network in Noosa Shire Planning Study (1996)
Coastal Area Traffic and Transport to 2016 (2002)
Noosa Community Transport Strategy (2007)
Noosa Integrated Local Transport Plan 2016 (2006)
Sunshine Coast Sustainable Transport Strategy 2011-2031 (2011)
Sunshine Coast Active Transport Plan 2011-2031 (2011)
Over the last couple of decades there have been a number of transport achievements:
The road network has been improved by the construction of Eenie Creek Road and
Walter Hay Drive.
A new transit centre at Noosa Junction was opened in 2011 which significantly
improved the amenity of bus passengers.
For a number of years, a travel demand management program was operated by
Council based on the TravelSmart program which included travel behaviour change
programs in local schools, workplaces, key destinations and the general community.
The program was successful, particularly in schools. In its first year Tewantin State
School achieved a 38% reduction in vehicle kilometres travelled (VKT).
Several kilometres of new pathways
Roll out of Noosa style Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant bus shelters.
Delivery of successful Free Holiday Buses Program at peak holiday periods.
Regional Plans & Strategies
The South East Queensland Regional Plan 2009 is due to be replaced with a new version,
recently released as a draft. The new version ShapingSEQ places greater emphasis on
public and active transport to move people around the region. It includes the following
elements and strategies for the next 25 years.
Element 1: An efficient movement Strategies
system: 1. Maximise the use of existing transport infrastructure to support the desired
People and freight move efficiently regional settlement pattern and economic network.
around the region, maximising 2. Prioritise improving the capacity of, and delivering high-frequency services for,
the region’s public transport system and extending active transport networks
Section 24
community and economic benefits. 3. Prioritise efficient and reliable freight movement on key corridors to minimise
conflicts with other transport and land uses
Element 2: Integrated planning Strategies
Infrastructure and land use planning 1. Investigate, plan and deliver a strategic transport system that connects people,
and delivery are integrated. places and employment efficiently with high-frequency passenger transport
services.
2. Investigate, plan and deliver transport solutions to enable the growth of areas of
regional economic significance by connecting regional activity centres,
knowledge and technology precincts, and major enterprise and industrial areas.
3. Coordinate and integrate the planning and delivery of infrastructure and services
at regional, sub-regional and local levels using a consistent set of regional plan
growth assumptions, including the 2041 dwelling supply and employment
planning benchmarks and supporting assumptions.
4. Integrate infrastructure project planning with local land use planning to maximise
access to, use and benefits of significant infrastructure and service upgrades,
including, where feasible, capturing a proportion of associated land value uplift to
help fund the project.
5. Investigate and plan to maximise shared use of vehicles, including through
planning for the introduction of autonomous vehicles.
Element 3: Active transport Strategies
Active transport is a favoured, 1. Provide an extensive and safe active transport network throughout the region’s
practical option for a range of trips. urban areas.
2. Support active transport connections to existing and planned, high-frequency
public transport stops and stations, centres, schools and tertiary education
institutions.
3. Design new urban communities to promote active and public transport travel to
reduce private vehicle dependence.
Element 4: Prioritised Strategies
infrastructure investment 1. Advance region-shaping infrastructure (Table 11) via the State Infrastructure
Investment in the regional Plan's planning, prioritisation and delivery framework.
infrastructure network is prioritised to 2. Support infrastructure solutions as required to enable planned growth areas (i.e.
service social and economic needs in those zoned for urban development) to provide an adequate, affordable urban
a way that integrates with the desired land supply.
growth pattern. 3. Identify innovative or non-built solutions to service needs to reduce costly
infrastructure investments.
4. Identify opportunities to partner with other levels of government or industry to
respond to service needs.
Element 5: Regional Strategies
infrastructure networks 1. Ensure land use and built form support the efficient use of existing regional
Regional infrastructure networks are infrastructure networks, and cost-effective augmentation of infrastructure for
maintained and enhanced to support energy, water and sewerage to meet needs.
the region’s growth and needs 2. Embrace innovative funding mechanisms to support better infrastructure
sustainably, cost effectively and in a delivery.
timely manner. 3. Deliver infrastructure coordination plans and regional transport plans for SEQ to
progress the planning and delivery of the strategic transport system, and other
infrastructure to support the region's growth.
Element 6: Digital infrastructure Strategies
SEQ has a robust digital infrastructure 1. Support improved digital connections to knowledge and technology precincts,
network to service business and centres, and major enterprise and industrial areas.
social interaction. 2. Work with communications providers and the Australian Government to improve
digital infrastructure.
3. Maximise the use of digital communications infrastructure to support more
flexible working arrangements.
In terms of infrastructure the plan identifies a future passenger transport trunk corridor for
high frequency passenger transport between Noosa Heads and Maroochydore (via the
Sunshine Coast Airport).
In 2011 the Queensland Government prepared Connecting SEQ 2031 An Integrated
Regional Transport Plan for South East Queensland. A new Regional Transport Plan is
currently being prepared.
Noosa Council also as a number of relevant plans and strategies including:
Noosa Traffic Study 2016-2036 – The study assesses road upgrade requirements
within the Noosa Shire to the year 2036.
Noosa Sustainability Principles (2015) – A set of Sustainability Principles which guide
the development of Noosa Council’s strategies and projects.
Section 25
Noosa Design Principles (2015) – The Design Principles provide guidelines to ensure
that the character of Noosa is maintained and enhanced.
Noosa Social Strategy (2015) – The Social Strategy provides a framework to
continue to improve community wellbeing and cohesiveness while addressing the
social opportunities and challenges facing Noosa.
Noosa Economic Plan (2015) – The Economic Plan looks to support the
development of a more diverse economy, growth in the smart industry sectors and
recognises the importance of sustainability – the interdependence of the economy,
the environment and the community.
Noosa Zero Emissions Strategy (2016) - The Zero Emissions Strategy sets an
ambitious target of zero emissions for Noosa Council by 2026. Work is currently
underway to develop a detailed Action Plan that will establish priorities for action of
which transport (fleet) will be included.
Noosa Council is also preparing a new Noosa Plan. Planning and land use elements will be
considered in terms of Transport and Movement.
The following extract from the Discussion Paper put forward priorities for the New Noosa
Plan in terms of Transport and Movement.
Outcome: - Land use and transport are integrated and the transport system
supports the preferred pattern of development plus resident and visitor transport
needs. Existing public transport infrastructure is capitalised on.
Focus on ‘infill’ development within the existing urban area rather than
outlying ‘greenfield’ development.
Investigate opportunities for increased densities around key transport
nodes.
Ensure high trip generating activities are co-located or near one another.
Capitalise on existing transport infrastructure by consolidating new
development within town centres and around transport nodes.
Ensure new housing, community facilities and businesses are accessible
by public transport, walking or cycling.
Provide for pedestrian and cycle connectivity at bus stops, ferry stops and
train stations.
Outcome: New development supports the use of public transport, walking and
cycling.
Reconsider a demand-based approach to the provision of car parking
Investigate opportunities for centralised parking in key precincts where
parking may be pooled rather than private.
Review planning scheme requirements for pedestrian pathways and for car
parking and crossover arrangements so that priority is given to places for
people rather than places for cars.
Review the findings of the Transport Plan with regard to suitable locations
on the edge of the urban area for Park-and-Ride facilities, which cater for
visitors to Noosa, hinterland residents who work in busy centres and
residents commuting to other destinations.
Ensure new development incorporates active and public transport
infrastructure.
Increase opportunities for off road pedestrian and cycle paths.
Prioritise the needs of pedestrians and cyclists over cars throughout the
public realm.
Ensure land development produces functional streetscapes that offer
safety, connectivity, legibility and permeability.
Section 26
Review provisions for secure cycling racks/storage and other end of trip
facilities for new development.
Consider future demand for, and changes in, transport infrastructure and
new technologies, including self-drive cars.