The Minister for Environment and Energy has announced a new plan of management for Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area (SCA), which allows for further planning on a mountain bike track proposal.
The Minister, Matt Kean said the new plan of management balanced the important ecology of Mount Canobolas SCA with its place as one of the most significant nature-based attractions in the central west.
“Mount Canobolas is important to the people of Orange and the surrounding area for a range of reasons,” Mr Kean said.
“It protects one of the largest remnants of subalpine vegetation in central NSW and supports more than 120 native animal species, including threatened species,” he said.
Mr Kean said the new plan recognised the area’s ongoing popularity as a place to view striking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
He said the plan also enabled redevelopment of the Mount Canobolas summit to improve visitor experience and safety.
“One of my first visits when I became Minister was to Mount Canobolas to hear first-hand about the park and the mountain bike proposal,” Mr Kean said.
“I am pleased to be able to release the new plan of management.”
He said the plan enabled the proponents of the mountain bike track led by Orange City Council to consider how their proposal might be developed in the new legal framework.
“Any proposed development on the site would be subject to rigorous environmental assessment,” Mr Kean said.
The 27-page plan can be accessed at this PS News link.
