The Diamond Creek Trail (DCT) is the most popular shared use trail in the Shire, connecting the two major townships of Eltham and Diamond Creek.
Nillumbik has extended this trail to connect with Wattle Glen and Hurstbridge.
The trail is currently 12km in length, running from Diamond Creek to Eltham Lower Park, where a connection to the Main Yarra Trail can be made. The extension will add 8 km of track between Diamond Creek and Hurstbridge.
The extended shared trail will consist of a concrete path for walking, running and cycling, and a separate natural surface trail for horse riding.
Stage 1 is 2.5km from Luscombe Drive in Diamond Creek to Wilson Rd in Wattle Glen and includes three creek crossings. Stage 2 is 3km from Wilson Rd in Wattle Glen to Hurstbridge and includes five creek crossings.
Once completed, the trail will run continuously for 55km from Hurstbridge to the CBD, linking with the Main Yarra Trail at Eltham.
The trail is important as it provides for both recreation and commuter use. The trail currently connects to Eltham and Diamond Creek railway stations; the extension will provide commuters with more options, connecting the trail to Wattle Glen and Hurstbridge railway stations.
Based on the current use of the Diamond Creek Trail, it has been estimated that there is the potential for a total of 350,000 users each year when the trail is extended to Hurstbridge, bringing benefits to the local and wider community.
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