State review may put end to bike trail

Consultation is taking place that will likely spell the end of the Mini Mattan’s mountain bike trail connecting the west side of Bussell Highway with the Margaret River townsite.

While residents have called for an integrated plan to develop established routes for bicycle users in Margaret River, the Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Department of Transport are conducting projects examining bike uses in their respective areas.

The State Government has invested $280,000 for regional bike plans, including in the Augusta-Margaret River Shire and the neighbouring City of Busselton.

Meanwhile, DPaW has commissioned local trails company Common Ground to review integration of its mountain biking network.

“The proposed trail network in Bramley National Park, around Wharncliffe Mill, is adjacent to Shire and Parks and Wildlife reserves on the south side of Carters Road,” a DPaW spokeswoman said.

“The department is working closely with the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River to determine how walkers and cyclers can access the trail networks in Bramley from the Margaret River townsite.”

The Shire told the Times its officers were involved in the discussions, though it was a DPaW project. A transport committee co-ordinated by the Shire is also advising on the trail plans.

Margaret River Off-Road Cycling Association president Dean Davies said the work was welcome to help provide greater safety and clarity for the region’s burgeoning mountain biking community, as well as increasing visitors.

He said addressing the Margaret River bridge crossing was essential and MRORCA was involved in advising on DPaW signage.

Last month, the Friends of the Barrett Street Reserve reiterated calls for mountain bikes to be banned from trails around the river, east of Bussell Highway.