MORE than $1.3 million worth of work will start next week on the day use area at Bayview Conservation Area, Redland Bay.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the trailhead entry off German Church Road would be transformed from a vacant grassed area to an outdoor recreational destination.
“Bayview Conservation Area is a well-used and much-loved recreational spot in our city, and these works will provide facilities to support its growing popularity,” Cr Williams said.
“Works are due to start the week beginning 17 July and will include a large covered barbecue area, signage, picnic tables and seating, a bike wash-down area, horse and bike stations, toilets, and access to power and water.
“Access will also be improved with a sealed dual-lane entry and exit road, horse float parking area and sealed car parking.
“This is a major upgrade to one of our city’s most popular draw cards and, weather permitting, we hope the new area will be completed just in time to welcome visitors associated with the Commonwealth Games.”
Cr Williams said the works would provide better facilities for all trail users including walkers, runners, mountain bike riders and horse riders.
“Council will also create a new mountain bike skills area, two new shared-use trails and a new all-abilities access walking trail, with the project to designed to deliver a world-class day use area that will attract trail users from elite sportspeople to families and event organisers,” she said.
Cr Julie Talty said all recreational trails would remain open during the seven-month construction period unless otherwise signed, though some access points would be affected.
“The current vehicle access trail off German Church Road will be closed but alternate entry points from this road will be available, with parking outside the reserve entry,” Cr Talty said.
“Entries to trails from Days Road, Kidd Street and Teviot Road will not be affected – however we do ask those accessing Bayview Conservation Area through these points be respectful of neighbouring properties when parking.”
Kidd Street and German Church Road parking points have space for trailers.
The Bayview Conservation Area Trails Facility Concept and Development Plan can be viewed on Council’s website at www.redland.qld.gov.au
The idea of opening conservation areas to activities like horse and bike riding was started in Queensland by the Campbell Newman government and is opposed by conservationists who argue that bikes cause erosion and horses are vectors for weeds.
They argue the move also undermines the value of conservation land which is supposedly protected for its environmental qualities rather than as a sporting venue.
