Residents in Melbourne's growing outer suburbs rely on cars for short trips due to 'missing' footpaths

Jessi Barnard would love to walk her children to school in Pakenham in Melbourne's booming outer south-east. Key points: Data shows residents in Melbourne's growth areas rely on cars for short trips more than the state average Advocates are calling on both major parties to commit $600 million to footpaths and other infrastructure Pakenham's population is more than 112,000 and it's expected to nearly double by 2041 The problem is there is no footpath for much of the journey, including along the busy Princes Highway. Advocates call on decision-makers to 'prioritise walking' Data from advocacy group, Victoria Walks, found residents in Melbourne's growth areas rely on their cars for short trips far more than the state average, mostly because of poorly maintained or 'missing' footpaths. The survey of about 2,300 Victorians showed 40 per cent of people in Melbourne's outer metropolitan growth areas didn't walk for transport at all. Concerns over lack of public transport and infrastructure Infrastructure is shaping up as a key issue in the outer suburbs ahead of this month's state election, with pollsters warning many voters feel neglected, as population growth puts pressure on local roads, health services and public transport.