Cyclists putting reserve users in danger
Cyclists in Ōmokoroa’s Cooney Reserve are putting walkers and other cyclists at risk as well as causing damage to the native bush along the cycleway/walkway.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council is appealing to the cyclists, believed to be children, to be more considerate of other reserve users and the surrounding environment.
Council’s Reserves and Facilities Team Leader Operations Steven White says the unsafe behaviour has been going on for several months and damage to the native bush has spanned from Gerald Crapp Reserve to Cooney Reserve.
“We have received feedback from community members about bike riders who are causing damage to the bush and endangering users of the adjoining cycleway.
“The cyclists are exiting the bush at speed without being able to see if anyone is walking or cycling along the cycleway – this is extremely dangerous and must stop. There are mums with their children, older walkers and other cyclists – all using this track responsibly and we are worried someone will get hurt.”
Steven requests that if anyone sees the cyclists riding their bikes through the bush to explain to them the danger and damage they are causing.
It has taken 15 years for the native bush to establish well in Cooney Reserve and it is getting damaged by cyclists riding off-trail and through the trees. Some of the trees have been intentionally removed by the cyclists to get access through the bush.
“It is an offence to damage or cut native bush on Council property and anyone found to be doing so is liable to a fine if prosecuted,” says Steven.