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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.

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For the first time in history the United Nations' Human Settlements Program has adopted a resolution formally recognising the role public spaces that are green, safe and socially inclusive play in sustainable urban development.

As part of the 2011-12 Commonwealth Budget a Sustainable Communities Package was announced that included $20 million towards creating more Liveable Cities. The package is for innovative solutions to address poor urban design, high levels of car dependency and a lack of open spaces. 

A series of new pedestrian signs have been installed at key destinations throughout London aimed to provide pedestrians with the right information on walking times and local attractions. Initial evaluations have revealed faster walking journeys, less people getting lost and an overall increase in people walking.

Studies continue to demonstrate a link between prolonged periods of sitting and an increased incidence of cardio-vascular disease, even for people who are generally healthy. Walk the Block Day on 17th May aims to combat workplace physical inactivity with a number of workplace walking ideas.

The Illawarra Active Transport Taskforce has undertaken a survey of recommended improvements to the NSW Coastline Cycleway in the Illawarra. The report demonsrates how local cycling community groups and government can work together to improve active travel infrastructure.

Another Melbourne trial is underway where on-street car parking is being converted to bike parking with the aim of increasing customer numbers in local shopping precincts. Car spaces are also no longer considered an integral part of a Sydney CBD lease according to recent SMH reports. 

Any Council working to improve the health of their community is eligible to apply for a Heart Foundation Healthy Community Award. Applications close 27th May 2011.

• All children are encouraged to participate in Walk Safely to School Day on 20th May 2011.
• The Woop festival is on Sunday 15th May 11am to 3pm, celebrating the newly completed Bourke Street cycleway between Waterloo and Woolloomooloo.