Cycling use of Taieri Gorge suggested
THERE could be room for both bicycles and trains if the Otago Central Rail Trail is extended to Dunedin.
A trail for cyclists, walkers and horse riders could run alongside parts of the Taieri Gorge rail line from Middlemarch and rail bikes could be used where room was lacking, Otago Central Rail Trail Trust chairwoman Kate Wilson said.
‘‘It doesn’t necessarily need to be a cycling route all the way,’’ she said.
Mrs Wilson spoke in the public forum of a Dunedin City Council meeting this week, for which the main agenda item was the future of Dunedin Railways Ltd and the Taieri Gorge line.
The trust was keen to work with the city council and Department of Conservation to consider what an extension to the rail trail could look like, she said.
The trail is a 150km ride or walk that follows the former Otago Central railway line between Clyde and Middlemarch. It opened in 2000 and has been a popular attraction since.
Mrs Wilson said a study could be carried out to help establish the feasibility of possible extensions.
She was part of a reference group behind the rail report considered by councillors and said more information was needed about the possibilities for recreational pursuits such as cycling.
Extending the rail trail has a form of formal backing from councillors. They decided the trust should be be supported in its efforts to seek funding for feasibility work, together with manawhenua and other interested parties.
Mrs Wilson said it was important for the line to be used regularly, whether by bicycles or trains.
The line is known for its scenic qualities and features tunnels, bridges and views of the gorge.
‘‘The history, it can’t be lost,’’ Mrs Wilson said.
Projected costs for maintaining the line for rail services approached ‘‘scary’’, but alternative uses would also not be free.