In April 2020 City of Mount Gambier implemented a one-way foot traffic directive around the Blue Lake exercise path as a social distancing measure to minimise the risk of the spread of COVID-19. From Tuesday 17 November 2020, use of the path along John Watson Drive will return to two-way pedestrian traffic, however the 750 metre narrow length of path along Bay Road will remain one way, clockwise only.
City of Mount Gambier General Manager City Infrastructure Nick Serle said most people had done the right thing to follow the clockwise direction when walking around the Blue Lake.
“Our city has been doing so well to avoid community transmission of COVID-19, so Council thought it was now time to reassess the current clockwise foot traffic direction at the Blue Lake,” Mr Serle said.
Two-way pedestrian traffic will be reinstated along the Blue Lake path on John Watson Drive. However, the Bay Road section of path will remain one way, clockwise only until further notice.
“This narrow section of path provides little to no room to pass oncoming users due to the physical restrictions caused by the guardrail and fence. Therefore, path users are unable to practise social distancing in this section, so foot traffic remains one-way, clockwise only at this stage,” Mr Serle said.
New signage will be installed at various points around the path to advise all users to comply with the new directions and remind people to continue to practise physical distancing.
After a seven-month hiatus, community fitness group Mount Gambier parkrun is keen to resume weekly Saturday morning running/walking events along the lake path.
It is understandable that Council had to make changes to ensure social distancing at the Blue Lake, but we are very happy to know that two-way traffic will be opened up around the back part of the lake, which means we can restart our five kilometre events as of 21 November 2020.- Mount Gambier parkrun Even Director Phil Ackland
“Indications are that about 80 to 100 people are expected to take part in the first meet back. Parkrun is important both physically and mentally to many people as a regular community activity so it’s really important to bring these types of activities back safely when possible,” Mr Ackland said.
Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on (08) 8721 2401 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
