More than 1000 people have signed a petition asking the Dorset Council to cease and desist all activities leading to the destruction of the North East rail corridor between Lilydale Falls and Scottsdale.
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However, in the same meeting the council will consider its own development application to build part of its proposed 40-kilometre bike trail from Lilydale to Scottsdale.
The council will vote on Monday whether to approve or deny a DA to construct about 26 kilometres of its proposed $1.5 million Rail Trail from Wyena to Scottsdale.
With the remaining 14 kilometres, within the City of Launceston council area, to be subject to a separate DA.
It received a petition with 1101 signatures against the project and 34 representations, with 19 objecting to the council's plans and 15 in support of them.
The concerns raised against the DA included:
- The lack of studies and reports attached to the DA on impacts to flora and fauna
- The rail line should be on the Heritage Register and not touched
- It would eliminate the opportunity for a heritage, tourism or passenger rail
- Discrimination for its limited use by non-disabled people
- The cost to decommission the line and construct and maintain the trail
- Impacts on adjoining properties
- Disregarding community opinion
- Safety concerns for users and provisions to limit use by motorcycles
- Lack of public facilities for users
It will include the decommissioning of former rail infrastructure, such as rail and sleepers, construction of trail surface, construction of decking and handrail along bridge crossings, 10 car parks and associated signage.
IN OTHER NEWS:
On average the path will be about 2.5 metres wide, for bike riders and walkers to share, and will range from two to three metres in width in parts.
If councillors approve the DA, it will require further approvals before construction can begin.
Including for works in a road reserve, building works and for the other 14km section, along with further approval from the Department of State Growth to remove the rail infrastructure.