Read: Peninsula Trails Masterplan

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Trail objective

The objective for this key connection is to establish a trail linking Merricks to Balnarring via a shared-use path accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, and the existing informal bridle trail.

Within Balnarring, two alignment options are under consideration: Alignment A, located on the north side of Frankston-Flinders Road, and Alignment B, positioned on the south side. Beyond Balnarring, the trail continues on a single alignment along the south side of Frankston-Flinders Road. A third alignment along an old rail reserve was considered but excluded due to its conversion to freehold land.

Highest ranked route:

This trail will connect Balnarring’s growing community to Merricks and Red Hill, offering a scenic, separated path along Frankston-Flinders Road with safe separation from traffic, enhanced indigenous planting that aligns with the Shire’s Urban Forestry and Green Wedge strategies. Key considerations include managing driveway crossovers, improving sight lines with minimal vegetation removal, and connecting to Hann’s Creek Reserve, where final alignment will be set in Concept Design. A bridge and boardwalk over Hann’s Creek will enrich user experience and support environmental restoration. Retention of the bridle trail, improved Frankston-Flinders Road crossing, and clear wayfinding through Merricks Station Reserve will enhance accessibility across the network.

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Alignment B (highest ranked):

This alignment avoids road crossings by staying on the south side of Frankston-Flinders Rd in Balnarring. The challenge with this strategy is that there are several driveway crossings and privatised road verges that the path will need to travel through. The other challenge is where Frankston-Flinders Rd turns south. Around this corner the road reserve is very narrow and visibility is poor due to vegetation and topography. Furthermore, around this corner the narrow road verge has dense vegetation that will require some clearing.

SCORE: 27.3

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