Trail strategy available for public comment

A newly-developed draft trail strategy guiding economically, environmentally and socially sustainable trail development across the region is now available for public comment.

Prepared by Common Ground Trails for the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and City of Busselton through the Capes Regional Organisation of Councils (CAPEROC), the Leeuwin Naturaliste Regional Trails Strategy is a guide for strategic investment in trail recreation, tourism and event development for trails across the Capes region.

Shire Manager Asset Services David Nicholson said the plan was now available in draft form and encouraged people to have their say.

“We live in a beautiful region full of active, outdoorsy people, and trails are a great way to experience this, be it on foot, bike or horse,” he said.

“As the region grows, trail use is expected to increase, which is why we need an overarching trails strategy – to make sure trails are developed responsibly, sustainably and in line with community aspirations.”

The need for a region-wide plan was first identified by CAPEROC in 2019.

Extensive consultation followed throughout 2019 and 2020 before Common Ground Trails was appointed to prepare the draft strategy.

Mr Nicholson said the plan considered bushwalking, trail running, off-road cycling and equestrian trails, with an emphasis on weaving together the region’s attractions.

“One of the key priorities identified is finishing the Wadandi Track and establishing it as the region’s key spine trail,” he said.

“Other priorities identified include strengthening the Cape-to-Cape experience, creating infill experiences off the spine trail like the Boranup Trail network and Margaret River-to-Coast Trail, improving governance and management structures, better marketing and promotion of trail experiences, and more.

“We want to ensure all trail users are well catered to, which is why it’s important everyone has their say.”

Feedback can be provided via YourSay at yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/regional-trails-strategy, by emailing [email protected] or in writing to the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, PO Box 61 Margaret River WA 6285. 

Submissions are open until 31 January.