Common Ground

Master Plan for Australia's South West

 

Australia’s South West region is synonymous with natural landscapes of significant beauty. Combined with mountain biking’s meteoric growth, the region is experiencing significant pressures exceeding the capacity of existing dedicated facilities. While tight knit communities have have formed and developed trail systems to alleviate short term demand, unsanctioned trails are being developed creating environmental risks.

 

Common Ground were engaged by WestCycle to undertake the exciting project. The master plan will follow a co-operative approach outlining the opportunity to create a diverse and sustainable mountain bike destination, fostering community participation and strengthening regional tourism. 

 

From the natural beauty and majestic karri’s of Pemberton to the outstanding topography surrounding Collie, the South West has the desired characteristics and exceptional potential for iconic mountain bike trails and facilities.

 

The primary aim of the master plan will be to provide a platform for the sustainable development of mountain bike trail networks in the region. This will be achieved through consultative planning identifying and prioritising innovative, sustainable and highly desirable mountain bike destinations.

 

The identified target area contains three DEC districts, eight mountain bike organisations, twelve local governments and sixteen tourism bodies. A co-operative and inclusive approach will provide a master plan that is universally adopted, identify and planning for the current and future demands and requirements. It is proposed to extend this inclusive approach to the identified locations, creating accessible and supportive environments while catering for diverse demographics with varied levels of ability.

 

The master plan will facilitate iconic and sustainable trails to match the world renowned South West destination.