Summary
The City of Albany is inviting stakeholder and community feedback on the proposed Stidwell Bridle Trail Determination.
The determination is seeking to address user conflicts, enhance safety and improve management within the Stidwell Bridle Trail area. The Stidwell Bridle Trail is a recognised Horse Exercise Area under the City of Albany’s Animals Local Law.
The public comment period is open from 31 August to 25 October 2023.
The City values everyone’s opinion and would like to hear from our community and stakeholders prior to submitting a final determination to Council for endorsement in December.
Feedback can be provided via the electronic survey or by emailing comments to [email protected]
Complete the electronic survey
Background
In 2021, a project working group was established to conduct an independent study of the Robinson Precinct and Stidwell Bridle Trail (SBT) to address various issues and inform future management of the area and trail maintenance. The study covered historical aspects, current management, environmental concerns, and safety issues, with a particular focus on equestrian use. It sought recommendations for improved future management and enhancements.
Extensive consultations were conducted with the project working group, key stakeholders (such as DWER and Water Corp), and targeted members of the trail user community to gather information for the study.
At the OCM held in July 2022, the Council acknowledged the study's findings, and City officers proposed developing a determination based on the City's local laws. The objective was to clarify permitted uses within the SBT network to assist with addressing conflicts among users, enhance safety, and improve overall trail and reserve management, working with the Friends of the Stidwell Bridle Trail (FSBT).
City officers have reviewed the tracks and trails and assessed the existing authorised uses to arrive at a balanced community approach for the proposed determination.
Under the City of Albany Property Local Law 2011 the proposed determination cause and effect is summarised as follows;
- 'Horse and Authorised Vehicle Only’ Sections of the SBT:
- This will allow for improved management, signage, and safety measures within the trail area.
- Access for authorised vehicles will be maintained to allow for relevant management authorities to access the area.
- Motorised Vehicle Access:
- Historically, licensed vehicles have used Sandpatch Reserve for accessing surfing and fishing spots and engaging in other recreational activities.
- Unlicensed off-road vehicles will remain prohibited in the trail area.
- Under the proposed determinations, tracks not designated as 'horse and authorised vehicles only' will continue to be available for licenced recreational vehicles, as permitted by the Property Local Law 2011.
- It is acknowledged that to manage motorised vehicle access, appropriate signage, gates, and education efforts will need to be implemented to prevent public access and minimise conflicts with other trail users.
Proposed determination map
Download determination map