Shire peddles mountain bike trail plan

The Shire of Narrogin is considering developing mountain bike trails and pump tracks within its boundaries, recently beginning a feasibility study on the sport’s potential locally.

David Wilcox, the director of Common Ground, a mountain bike master planning company, travelled to Narrogin on Thursday, January 17, for the feasibility study.

Mr Wilcox said eventual pump tracks and mountain bike trails in the shire could lead to tourism boom, as the sport’s demand exceeds location supply in WA.“At the moment there is a lot of planning happening in the State, to date we haven’t had a significant amount of trail development,” he said.

“Trail demand, specifically for mountain biking, is far out stripping supply.

“There’s good opportunity for those who get in early and develop, will definitely see tourism benefits because people will travel to use those trails.”

Shire of Narrogin’s manager community, leisure and culture Susan Guy is leading the Shire’s efforts on the project.

“It’s justified as a project based on the fact it links with our strategic plan which is supporting growth and progress locally and regionally,” she said.

“One of our strategies is to attract new industry, businesses investment and encourage diversity and growth of local businesses. I see the trail as something that will bring people into town and will increase activity locally around mountain biking.”

Ms Guys said the feasibility study will also encourage local feedback, indicating the Narrogin community’s level of interest in the sport.

Mr Wilcox and Ms Guy both said that there were makeshift tracks within the shire, indicating a local demand for the sport currently.