Cromwell Bike Park partially closed

A small portion of the Cromwell Bike Park is partially closed while the Central District Council investigates the felling of trees on a section of the reserve which may impact on the safety of the site.

On Thursday last week (14 December 2023), the Council learned that a number of trees had been cut down on the Neplusultra Reserve in Cromwell where the Cromwell Bike Park and BMX track is located.

Enquiries determined that the work was authorised by the bike park committee without permission from Council, which put an immediate halt to the work while the matter was investigated, and health and safety documentation was obtained. The BMX track, pump track and children’s cycle park sections remain open. The portion that is closed is fenced off.

The Council understands that the work had been carried out by a contractor.

Looking into the matter further, it was also determined that there was an additional bike track being constructed at the same time.

Discussion on future works around the removal of the trees and the construction of an additional jump line was currently underway between the Council and bike park committee, CODC Parks and Recreation Manager Gordon Bailey said.

“The trees that have been felled were part of an informal forestry block within the reserve. The Council has concerns that the remaining trees may be unstable in high winds, and we are seeking advice on this. Until this has been determined this part of the bike park will remain closed.”

The bike park leases a section of this reserve from Council. The Council would continue to discuss the development of this site with the committee, he said.

Council needs to approve a redevelopment and maintenance plan.