Council periodically becomes aware of unauthorised mountain bike and BMX tracks and structures in Council managed natural areas right across the coast. Often these are reported to us by the community.
With every report, our staff investigate and assess the risk to the public and the impacts to the surrounding environment, threatened species and any heritage values before determining the next steps.
Unauthorised builds in natural bushland
We are tasked with managing over 6000 hectares of natural reserves and we prioritise our management efforts where there is greatest need. We actively seek to protect and preserve sensitive parts of our environment and enhance biodiversity.
Mountain bike riding is currently permitted on designated fire and management trails in some of our natural reserves, however a number of unauthorised tracks have also been constructed that have the potential to have a negative impact on the environment, and at times Aboriginal heritage sites.
Unauthorised builds that cause harm to the environment, threatened species or are a risk to the public will be removed and the land remediated in order of priority. Our Rangers also patrol our reserves to monitor areas of concern and encourage the community to only ride on fire trails.
Although we recognise that most riders want to enjoy and experience nature in a positive way, at times their activities can have significant impacts on these reserves, the species, and sensitive sites that they contain.
Recognising that it is a popular and growing sport on the Central Coast, Council is committed to actively working with the community to try and support mountain bike riding, in a sustainable and positive way.
Council is currently investigating opportunities for progressing the development of the Mountain Biking Plan.
You can view our work with the community on this at yourvoiceourcoast.com/mtb
Report an issue
If you would like to report an unauthorised bike jump or track, you can do this any time via our Online Customer Service Centre.