New trails to shine bright at Dimond Bros

Dapto’s Dimond Bros Reserve is to soon have two new exciting bike tracks for bike riders to enjoy.

The concept design for the two tracks is currently on public exhibition, and have been modelled to those built at Figtree’s Harry Graham Park late last year.

Council is seeking feedback from the community on the tracks for Dimond Bros Reserve in Dapto. It’s proposed they be built near the existing skate park, and the concept plan includes a track for beginners with smaller jumps, and a larger track for more experienced riders who are looking to push their skills.

“Last year we worked with young people and their families in the Figtree area on a new pump track that would allow the riders to test out their bike skills in a safer way,’’ Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“That project grew out of a need to encourage the young riders to stay away from sensitive natural environments where they had been building their own tracks, but also appreciated that young riders had a clear idea of what they wanted from these spaces with their jumps and tracks.

“We’re looking to build on this experience by undertaking a similar project with the young people of West Dapto. We’ve also plans to construct two more tracks in a more central location around Wollongong and one in the northern suburbs later this year. All this work is part of our commitment to make this city bike friendly for everyone – regardless of how and where you like to ride.’’

As part of Council’s community engagement approach, an online Concept Plan Information Session will be held online on Monday 21 September between 5.30-6.30pm. People can register to be involved through the Our Wollongong website.

The website also includes details of the two trail concepts and an online feedback form. Comments must be submitted to Council by 29 September 2021.

“I’m really intrigued by what the local community will have to say about these tracks – they’re certainly the next level on what was built in Figtree,’’ Cr Bradbery said.

“We’ve had some challenges with illegal and dangerous trails being built in the Purrungully Woodland and we’re hopeful that these exciting new tracks will allow that area and its threatened flora and fauna to be protected before they become extinct.

“The Woodland is listed as an Endangered Ecological Community and I am sure our community appreciate the balance we’re working to strike with this project by providing a space for young people to ride, while also protecting the natural environment.’’

Caption: Artists impression of one of the tracks proposed for Dimond Bros Reserve.