As we head into the Christmas season we are often reminded of the need to stay safe on the roads.
This is an important message and one that is applicable for all road users.
Off road it is just as vital to remain vigilant when exercising.
For young people this is often done by swimming, surfing, skating, or riding a bike.
Last month, Council endorsed the formation of a community reference group to help shape the detailed designs for our proposed district ride centre in Ocean Grove.
This would contain features such as dirt jumps, an asphalt pump track and a skills trail.
The ride centre would aim to cater for riders of all skill levels, while meeting the needs of those users of makeshift jumps in the town.
Earlier in the year the City assessed eight potential sites in Ocean Grove, which resulted in Kingston Park being identified as a preferred option.
This came down to a number of factors, including its size, topography, location, and existing features such as car parking and public toilets.
The proposed location and concept plans were made available for community feedback during July and August, with 88.6 per cent of 351 respondents supportive of Kingston Park as the location.
However, Council noted during its November meeting that objectors’ concerns included the potential impact on traffic and a lack of safe pedestrian and cycling connections to the site, along with issues such as loss of open space and off-leash dog areas.
Having taken on board this feedback, as well as the potential overflow impacts to the rest of the reserve, Council has determined that while Kingston Park remains the preferred location, a Community Reference Group is best placed to help assist in the detailed design of the ride centre.
A report with a recommendation on the next steps for the ride centre will come before the Council by August 2023.
Anybody who would like further project information on the proposed ride centre, including the concept designs, can visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/OGDRC via the Council website.
