Welcome to the PCAL monthly bulletin. This bulletin reports up to date news and research of interest to people who want to promote active living choices in NSW. Previous bulletins are archived on the PCAL website.

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The Bonnyrigg Living Communities Project (also known as NewLeaf) is a NSW Government initiative to redevelop and revitalise a large 1970s public housing estate in Western Sydney. The project is the first time that the PCAL Designing Places for Active Living guidelines have been included in the formal condition of consent for a major development process and are described further in this case study.
 

Premier Keneally and City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore have signed a (MoU) to overhaul Sydney’s city traffic. Changes include the introduction of light rail, creation of 10 kmph shared zones and a range of pedestrian friendly measures. 
 

Several recent US research updates have reinforced the health benefits of active travel and the positive link between public transport and health. One study demonstrated that the construction of a light rail system increased physical activity (walking) and subsequent weight loss by people served by the system.
 

Victoria has released a new walking strategy. The strategy establishes broad policy principles and the first steps to guide the Victorian Government's investment in walking over the next 10 years – including infrastructure, planning and design, safety and behaviour change programs. While New York City has released a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan.

Secure bike racks, lockers and showers are to be a compulsory inclusion in all new Queensland major developments under proposed changes to the Queensland Development Code. Under the draft code, major new developments will be required to provide shower and locker facilities for employees or the public.
 

 

NSW Bike Week is a state-wide NSW Government initiative which provides an opportunity for local communities to participate in organised bicycle events between 18-26 Sept, 2010. The Spring Cycle is the largest NSW recreational cycling event. Previous evaluations have demonstrated these events are effective in increasing participation in regular physical activity.

This year’s ride to work day is 13 October, 2010. An increasing number of local councils are offering free cycling courses to help prepare. Cycle commuters who need to drop the kids to school on their way to work can now access a small fleet of specialist trailers from Australia’s first ‘bike library.’
 

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is seeking comment on a discussion paper on mountain biking in the state's national parks and reserves. Comments are invited until 19 October, 2010.