Rowan Supports Mountain Bikers In Tree Dispute

Rowan supports mountain bikers in tree dispute

Kapiti Mayoral Candidate Jenny Rowan is calling on the Council to reconsider its decision to clear fell 18 acres of pine forest between Mazengarb Road and the Otaihanga landfill.

The area is currently being used by a group of about 100 local young people who are using it weekly as an informal mountain bike park.

Ms Rowan says the area is not required for the Western Link Road, the trees have not been professionally farmed and Council claims that felling the trees could return an income of $100,000 need to be questioned.

"Meanwhile we have a large group of young people who are organised and motivated and really enjoying riding under these trees," she says

She says Kapiti is really devoid of mature trees and they will provide a very good sound barrier for residents in the area - mitigating against noise from the Western Link Road.

"Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing sports in the western world - I think this is a wonderful opportunity for the Council to support young people develop a very exciting and positive venture that could eventually return more to the District than a bunch of sawn logs on the back of a truck. It's time to think again," she says.

ENDS

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