As expected, the resurgence of Covid-19 in June 2021 meant a lot of residents were working/studying from home, and we saw the use of public transport drop significantly.
- In 2021, one third (33%) of participants stated that they had changed their usual mode of travel to work/study since the Covid-19 outbreak.
- The largest proportion of residents who participated in the study were driving alone (42%), followed by those taking a combination of public transport of train (21%), bus (19%) and/or walking (14%).
Physical activity outcomes
- Overall, there were some improvements.
- Most participants said walking in their neighbourhood was ‘very/ extremely easy’ (46%) or ‘somewhat easy’ (44%).
- You told us you’re walking more for exercise, with both how often you walk and for how long increasing. In 2021, participants walked for just under half an hour, five (5) times a week.
- Cycling to work has remained static, but cycling overall, has increased. The proportion who ‘never cycle’ has decreased from 80% to 69% between 2019 and 2021.
- Those describing cycling as ‘not at all easy’ has reduced from just under half (46%) in 2019, to a third (35%) in 2021.
Social outcomes:
- Perceptions of safety when undertaking a variety of activities during the day improved.
- You’ve noticed your neighbourhood is a little greener.
- In terms of social connection, residents reported they could see more diversity in the neighbourhood and noticed more children playing on the street.
For more information on the 2021 survey please see the 2022 newsletter in the resources section. The newsletter is available in English, Korean and Simplified Chinese.
We found out more about the way you travel and could see the profound impacts COVID-19 has had on our community. Participants told us 60% usually travel to and from work and/or study by car alone, while 40% catch the train (respondents could select more than one option).
Just over 50% of participants believed walking in their neighbourhood was ‘somewhat easy’.
Overall, you all love your neighbourhood and it seems you are more active than the average NSW resident – good work Carlingford and Epping!
To learn more about the 2020 survey results, see the 2021 Newsletter in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese.
We know a lot more about how you travel around your neighbourhood, what modes of transport you use and what would encourage you to walk and ride around your area. We have already made a few improvements based on what you told us. To read the newsletter, click on the links below or look for it in the resources section to learn more. The newsletter is available in English, Korean and Simplified Chinese.
Epping and Carlingford are currently undergoing rapid change, with a large number of new residents moving in. This is changing how people move in the area and Council would like to better understand the needs of residents. Council is partnering with NSW Health as people’s daily movement and travel habits can influence their feelings of health and wellbeing.
This area has been chosen because it is currently serviced by heavy rail that will shortly be converted to Light Rail, has a Metrobus service, significant State Roads and will have selected improvements made for walking and cycling.
Council does not control the provision of transport or major road in the area, but is a strong advocate for the community. Council is responsible for local roads, footpaths, most cycleways, parks and street trees.
Improvements to streets will vary depending on the location and needs of the neighborhood, subject to funding, consultation with the community and approval by State Government agencies where required. Changes could include:
- Circulation changes to reduce rat-running (discouraging drivers from using the back streets in neighbourhoods to avoid main roads)
- Refuge islands and sidewalk ramps
- Footpaths
- Bike paths in the road or through parks
- Tree planting to make areas more attractive.
Council is partnering with NSW Health to survey residents and as part of the requirements of this research, they are not able to report on surveys conducted with those under the age of 18.
For more information on the 2022 survey, on project delivery, or to provide feedback, please email transportplanning@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au or call City of Parramatta on 1300 617 058 and ask to speak with the Transport Planning team.