Mountain bike trails get the go-ahead at Arch Hill Scenic Reserve

Mountain bike trails get the go-ahead at Arch Hill Scenic Reserve

Auckland City Council plans to develop mountain bike trails at Arch Hill Scenic Reserve in Grey Lynn, in association with the Auckland Mountain Bike Club (AMBC).
The plans were approved at today's Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee meeting.
Chairperson of the committee, Councillor Penny Sefuiva, says that the increasing popularity of mountain biking means it is important to have a dedicated facility within the city.
"The development of dedicated trails and a skills area in Arch Hill Scenic Reserve will provide the community with opportunities for off road cycling," Ms Sefuiva says.
"This project will also allow us to revive an under-used park for all members of the community to enjoy."
A feasibility study of several parks identified Arch Hill as the most suitable option in the short term while further work is carried out on other sites.
The other parks considered as part of the feasibility study were Avondale South Domain, Newmarket Park and Western Springs Lakeside Park.
Arch Hill Scenic Reserve is the preferred option for a number of reasons, including:
it has fewer constraints and provides the greatest opportunity for the development of mountain bike trails, along with an open area for skills development
the building of trails will result in the removal and ongoing management of weeds and the restoration of native vegetation in areas where trails are developed
mountain bike trails will improve personal safety for all park users due to greater park use
the site is in an excellent position to link to other cycle routes.

AMBC volunteers will assist with the design and development of the site providing an in-kind contribution of approximately $85,000.
The proposed plans for mountain bike trails at Arch Hill Reserve will not substitute or replicate other mountain biking facilities in the Auckland area, but provide an opportunity for an inner-city mountain biking experience catering for a variety of cyclists.
Ms Sefuiva says in a growing and built-up city such as Auckland, there are practical limitations on to what can be accommodated within the open space available.
However, she says the council is committed to working with neighbouring authorities to develop regional facilities and services that can accommodate community needs.
Auckland City Council will prioritise this project in the capital works programme and review its budgets to determine what funds can be allocated to this project.
Ends
For further information, please contact:
Councillor Penny Sefuiva, chairperson, Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee
ph (09) 360 2711 or 027 242 0863

Posted Thu 06 Sep 2007