Council has committed funds to support the construction of a cycle trail between Waimate and the Waihao Forks.
At an Ordinary Council Meeting on 23 July, Council was asked to consider a funding request for $500,000 from project lead Waimate2gether.
The 13km offroad trail would travel through the Waimate Gorge, along the old railway line in Arno and past the limestone rocks, before ending at the Waihao Forks. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $2 million.
Council agreed for an initial $100,000 to be granted to the project subject to Waimate2gether securing the remaining funds from other sources. This will be reviewed after two years if the funds have not been secured.
The potential for a further $150,000 to be granted will be consulted on next year as part of the Long Term Plan 2025-34.
The funds will come from Council’s Subdivision Contribution Reserve Fund, which is separate from rates. It is drawn from residential subdivision and developments in the district to fund projects which increase the range of public open space and recreation areas and facilities that meet the needs of residents and visitors to the district.
Mayor Craig Rowley commended Waimate2gether for the work it had done on the project, noting it would be a great asset for the town.
