Manning Park mountain bike trail concept

The City of Cockburn's response to a 17 July, 2020 article in the Fremantle/Cockburn Herald on 21 July, 2020 -

The City was not given an opportunity to comment on claims in last week’s Herald article (‘Backpedal starts on MB trail’, P5, 18.7.20) about the proposed mountain bike trails in Manning Park. We would like to clarify a few details.
 
This project is only in the concept phase and nothing has been finalised. We always ask for community feedback to help refine concept plans. This is not backtracking, it is standard process. We want our residents to be involved in shaping the City’s projects.
 
This concept plan was not drafted by lobbyists. It was drafted by professional trail design consultancy Common Ground Trails, which won a competitive quoting process. The consultancy was also recommended by two State Government departments including the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
 
A detailed environmental study would be undertaken after community consultation, once a concept is finalised. Detailed studies are not usual practice during the early concept stage as concepts almost always change, making such studies outdated and a potential waste of funds. In this case, the location and route of the trails have not been finalised.
 
Any approved plan will seek to reverse the damage caused by the large network of unsanctioned mountain bike trails in Manning Park. Many of these trails may close and undergo revegetation while others may be sustainably redesigned.
 
Manning Park was recommended as an area for mountain biking in the State Government’s Mountain Bike Master Plan and the City’s Manning Park Master Plan, which was endorsed by Council.
 
Chris Beaton
Environment Manager
City of Cockburn