The Warburton Mountain Bike Destination has reached a huge milestone after the project team delivered the project’s Environmental Effects Statement (ESS) to the Victorian Minister for Planning on 22 October.
Over the past 18 months Yarra Ranges Council, together with a team of expert consultants, have completed the most comprehensive investigation ever undertaken into the potential environmental effects of mountain biking.
The EES stretches over approximately 3500 pages, containing around 1,500,000 words, covering the topics of; Biodiversity and Habitats; Surface Water, Ground Water and Geotechnical Hazards; Cultural Heritage; Land Use and Planning; Socio-economic; and Transport.
Director of Environment and Infrastructure, Mark Varmalis said it is the latest body of work after years of preparing, planning and engagement with stakeholders and the community.
“This is the only project of this nature to have undertaken an EES in Victoria and is the most comprehensive investigation of potential environmental effects of mountain biking ever conducted,” he said.
Following the Minister’s authorisation, it is anticipated that the EES will go on public exhibition in late November 2021.
During the exhibition period the EES will be available online and in hard copy for the community to review.
There will also be opportunities for the community to hear about the project and connect with project staff and specialists.
During this time the community will be invited to have their say and make submissions on the EES.
“These submissions will be reviewed, through an inquiry by an independent panel who will then report to the Minister for Planning. After this report has been assessed, the Minister will advise on how the project will proceed.”
More information will be released over the next coming weeks on how residents can participate in the EES process or register on www.rideyarraranges.com.au to receive project updates.
“Stage 1 of this project has been funded by all three tiers of Government, along with a $300,000 contribution from the Upper Yarra Community Enterprise, and will deliver significant economic, jobs and health benefits for the community and the wider state. We look forward to sharing updates with the community as the EES progresses.”
