Central Coast Council is calling on all mountain bike (MTB) riders, environmentalists, users of our natural reserves, visitors, and the general Coast community to assist us with our first Mountain Biking Feasibility Study.

With participation in mountain bike riding as both a sport and nature-based recreation increasing, and demand for suitable areas to ride also growing, Council is looking to hear from all interested members of the community to help better understand the demand, potential issues and management options for mountain biking in Council reserves across the region.

Director of Environment and Planning Scott Cox said the feasibility study will assist in planning for recreation that will meet the needs of the community as well as protect biodiversity, heritage and the nature conservation values of Council’s natural reserves.

“This study will provide us with an opportunity to accommodate and manage the competing demands of natural reserve users and mountain bike enthusiasts in a way that protects sensitive areas and provides new opportunities to enjoy nature-based activities in the region,” Cox said.

“Additionally, it will assist in providing opportunities to enjoy the cherished and protected natural beauty of the Coast that is compatible with the values of the natural reserves, including the Coastal Open Space System.”

Council currently provides for mountain bike riding on fire and management trail systems in its natural reserves however a number of unauthorised trails have recently been constructed in some reserves which may pose risks to both riders and the environment.

Community members can provide their views to Council via a survey until 2 July 2019.

At the completion of the Mountain Biking Feasibility Study, Council will seek further community input via public exhibition of a discussion paper. This will be used to inform recommendations for mountain biking usage in Council’s natural reserves that is compatible with the Coast’s environmental and heritage values.

For more information on the study, and to complete a survey, visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/MTBfeasibilitystudy