The road connection between The Gap and Upper Kedron has taken a significant step forward after the Deputy Premier directed State departments to engage with BCC on modifying the Ferny Grove–Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan. The decision follows strong community advocacy, including a petition with approximately 1,400 signatures.
For over a decade, residents of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove have called for a vehicular connection to Mt Nebo Road, seeking improved accessibility and alternative transport routes.
The initial 2014 development application (DA A003905687) for the Ellendale estate proposed two road connections to Mt Nebo Road. However, after community opposition—primarily from residents in The Gap, Ashgrove, and Bardon—BCC limited the corridor to emergency vehicles and active transport (pedestrians and cyclists).
Despite 79 public submissions opposing restricted access, the 2018 Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan retained the emergency-only classification. The State upheld the restriction, stating that BCC was responsible for seeking amendments.
Recent Developments
In response to community advocacy and a petition signed by around 1,400 residents, the Deputy Premier has now instructed the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, and Planning to collaborate with BCC on changes to the neighbourhood plan. This directive aligns with the city officials’ commitment to removing obstacles for the road’s consideration.
While this does not guarantee immediate construction, it is a crucial step towards securing approval for a general traffic connection.
Challenges and Considerations
BCC’s original opposition to a public road was based on traffic modelling, which suggested low usage compared to the cost of construction and maintenance. Additionally, some residents of The Gap and Ashgrove have raised concerns about increased traffic flow.
Advocates argue that:
- The current road network forces all traffic onto Samford Road, creating inefficiencies.
- A new road would improve emergency access, particularly during landslides and bushfire events.
- Environmental benefits include reduced emissions by shortening travel distances to Enoggera Dam, Walkabout Creek, and The Gap Park ‘n’ Ride.
Potential mitigation strategies include reducing speed limits on the 2km section of Mt Nebo Road to 60 km/h.
Community Reactions: Mixed Views on the Road Connection
The Ferny Grove Upper Kedron (FGUK) Residents Association, which led the petition effort, maintains that a majority of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents support a full traffic connection.
The proposal to connect Upper Kedron to Mt Nebo Road has sparked strong opinions among residents, with discussions unfolding across social media. Many supporters see the recent State directive as a positive step towards better connectivity, viewing it as a long-overdue improvement. Some believe that Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents should have greater access to surrounding suburbs, especially as past development plans indicated a road connection was always a possibility. Others argue that infrastructure should evolve with changing community needs rather than remain fixed to the conditions at the time of purchase.
However, opposition remains. Some residents feel that those who moved into Upper Kedron did so knowing there was no connection to Mt Nebo Road, questioning why there is now a push to change that. Concerns about traffic safety and increased accidents on Mt Nebo Road have also been raised, suggesting that a bus service would be a better alternative to a full road connection. Supporters argue that traffic concerns may be overstated, while opponents stress safety risks. Others propose mitigation measures, such as lowering the speed limit on the relevant stretch of Mt Nebo Road.
Discussions continue, with a clear divide between those advocating for improved accessibility and those concerned about the potential consequences of opening the road to general traffic.
What Happens Next?
While the State’s directive to engage with BCC is a significant milestone, key steps remain:
- BCC must initiate amendments to the Brisbane City Plan.
- A feasibility assessment will determine construction viability.
- Ongoing public consultation will likely shape final decisions.
Residents can learn more at the FGUK Residents Association AGM on 23 February at 2 p.m. at Upper Kedron Hall.
Published 5-Feb-2025
