MTB planning

We (MWMTB) have been attending regular meetings with WSN and a local community group for a while now to keep our foot in the door so to speak. Most recent developments: tip was initially scheduled for closure this year, however, the State Govt recently re-evaluated their waste management strategy & in their infinite wisdom have decided to grant a license to extend the life of the tip (mainly because of the lack of alternative landfill sites in the Syd metro area). WSN are currently in the process of preparing a DA for extended life, however, details aren't available yet as to the revised closure date.

It seems generally accepted by WSN, the local community group and with support from certain state Govt Members that the tip site will one day be able to be used for passive recreation - MTB and horse riding predominantly. We have also explored the option of being able to develop trails on part of the site whilst landfilling still occurs in other areas (note: the north-western portion is esentially rehabilitated). However, WSN have the usual concerns about their liabilities whilst they still have control of the site (and they will maintain control over some areas for a period of years after landfilling ceases) & would not permit any use of the land unless another well insured party could take control. In reality this could only be Warringah Council or the State Govt.

So, in summary, yes we may get access to the land some day after the tip closes but this is probably a couple of years away at best...

Dave
DH Coordinator, MWMTB

Over the last few years I have heard a number of rumours about the tip site being developed as a major sporting venue. However, this has only been spoken about in general terms and as far as I'm aware there has been no detailed planning in that regard. Also, in reality that site will probably never be developed as a full on sporting complex due to land subsidence that is expected to occur for 20+ years after filling stops - hence issues with buildings or field sport areas. But 'passive recreation' is likely to be permitted & in view of this MTB, walking/running and horse riding trails are the likely uses. Given that MTB is not the only intersted user group we need to keep up our profile to ensure that if/when the opportunity arises we are well placed to secure access.

Also, the development of the site as a community facility will require substantial $ from either local or state Govt. With regard to any state level involvement, the local Liberal member Jonathon O'Dea is supportive of redevelopment of the site for community purposes, however, I would suggest it unlikely that a Labor Govt is going to throw any money towards an electorate that is probably the safest Liberal seat in the country...

WSN have been advised by Warringah Council that the site as approved under consent No. 78/213 allows for the continued operation of this facility subject to compliance.
WSN were advised to enter into a public positive covenant under the provisions of Section 88E of the Conveyancing Act 1919 that can only be varied or modified by the Council.

In other words a DA gets approval by an independant body and can be modified by application at any time. Whereas a covenant is a condition of the land use and this is submitted to the elected Council for approval and remains valid over the land even in the case of resale.

There is still some glimmer of hope here but I'm sure we'll have to hang in there for the long term.
Brett
Secretary
MWMTB

No that was to be on the land at the end of Ralston Ave adjacent to the electrical substation.
Warringah Council changed their mind and returned to John Fisher Park @ Curl Curl