After extensive community consultation and preparation, Townsville City Council's draft Mountain Bike Strategy 2021-2031 is now available for feedback.
The draft Strategy was developed following 567 responses to a survey held by Council in mid-2020.
Council Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said the draft Strategy outlines the key areas for growth in mountain biking across the region.
"Thanks to the extensive responses and consultation done in the lead-up to drafting this strategy, Council has a clear understanding about the demand and the most promising opportunities for expanding mountain biking for Townsville," Cr Soars said.
"The Strategy identifies potential areas for new tracks to support beginner and intermediate riders, and it also identifies a need for amenities such as toilets at popular locations.
"This allows Council, the State Government and community groups to prioritise investment and funding with an evidence-based strategy and key recommendations to guide the decision-making process."
Cr Soars said mountain biking had the potential to drive tourism in the city while also providing health benefits for participants.
"Mountain biking is a fast-growing sport and there is a clear push for cities such as Townsville to explore tourism in this space," he said.
"There are also physical and mental health benefits to providing accessible and access-friendly tracks for all ability levels.
"The next stage of this Strategy is to get public feedback on the draft, make any changes needed, and then present it to Council for endorsement.
"I encourage anyone interested in the sport, or who took part in the initial survey, to jump on to Have Your Say Townsville and provide feedback."
To view the draft strategy and provide feedback, visit Have Your Say Townsville.
