Walkers & Trampers...
A meeting of
recreational walkers/ trampers was recently, chaired by Paul Coffey
from the DCC and Susan Clegg DoC, to discuss various proposals
for making better use of local tracks. It was attended by representatives
from a number of walking groups including both past and present
members of the OTMC. Some of the conclusions reconfirmed decisions
reached during a discussion at our clubrooms some two years ago.
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That the
bulk of the Silver Peaks be kept as a "wilderness" with some
markers placed in strategic places and that only some tracks
on the periphery be given signage. It was suggested that a public
map be produced with a "black" line around the wilderness area
so that all concerned, including visitors, had an illustration
of where there would be limited (if any) signage. It was general
agreed that the Whare Flat/ Silverstream area could be signposted
with directional as well as historical signage, again with "boundary".
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Ken Mason
suggested those present invite their respective group to make
use of the new access from Spiers Road to Ben Rudds.
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Jubilee
Park and surrounds are being developed to cater for mountain
bikers as is a designated area on Signal Hill which w also have
a developed arboretum and walking track. The DCC are currently
looking at routes for mountain bikers from Flagstaff, to Leith
Valley, and Campbells Road to the Bethunes Gully carpark, to
provide alternatives to the existing walking tracks. Members
have an opportunity for some input here!
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Mention
was made of a landowners intention to apply to have part of
Camp Road closed so that he could better place his pr posed
new house on his section. Some at the meeting were intending
to oppose his application.
-
A request
by Mr George Sutherland to construct a shelter Green Hut site
was discussed at length, with a split opinion the advisability
of such a venture given the concerns over funding/future maintenance
and vandalism. DoC were to have further discussions with Mr
Sutherland.
The meeting
was an excellent opportunity for the various groups share opinions
and different view points, and further meetings will held when
there is seen to be a need for communication between outdoor groups.
Paul Coffey is the "Community Advisor - Outdoor Recreation" for
the DCC. Susan Clegg looks after the Coastal Recreation Area for
DoC.
Alan Thomson
with help from Olive Neilson
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