A shared-use path connecting the iconic townships of McLaren Flat and McLaren Vale is one step closer following a council decision on which route the trail will take.

Two potential Flat to Vale Trail routes were presented to the community for feedback in October and November, and council last week threw its support behind the 3.6-kilometre option on the northern side of Pedler Creek.

The option was supported by 92.4 per cent of the residents who responded via council’s Your Say page.

The route crosses eight individual parcels of land, so council will now finalise land access arrangements with the private landowners, before progressing to detailed design and construction, with completion of the trail estimated for June 2022.

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson says it was exciting to see the trail get one step closer.

“This is going to be such a fantastic trail for families, riders, walkers and runners—both locals and visitors alike,” she says.

“It’ll improve safety, providing a pedestrian and cycle connection between the two towns where there’s currently none, and it will help strengthen our region as a cycling tourism destination, enhancing the wine, food and tourism experience.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to all the residents that provided their feedback on the trail options, and to the landowners for willingness to get behind this vision.”

Construction of the trail is estimated to cost $1.73 million, excluding costs associated with securing access to private land holdings.

The federal government announced $1.5 million in funding towards the trail, as advocated for by Rebekah Sharkie MP, in October. 

Onkaparinga council has committed funding to secure private land access and will also contribute the remaining $230,000 required to construct the trail through its 2021-22 budget process.