THE loss of the Pines mountain bike track when the forest is harvested this year is a blow for cyclists, but the Margaret River Off Road Cycling Association is planning bigger, better and permanent trails.
The Forest Products Commission has confirmed the Pines will be harvested in the near future but operations will be limited and should reduce the impact on trails.
At this stage logging operations will only be undertaken in the north-west corner of the forest with one mountain bike trail affected.
After harvesting the commission will reassess its schedule and will endeavour not to harvest any more of the plantation west of the highway this year. This could change depending on market conditions.
The delay gives the Margaret River Off Road Cycling Association more time to develop a sustainable network of trails in Bramley National Park.
"We are looking at making 10-14 kilometres of trails in the area," association chairman Stepan Libricky said.
"The aim is to provide trails suitable for family and kids as well as competitions.
"We hope to get them up by the end of the year."
While the group is saddened by the loss of the Pines trail it was always aware it was going to be a temporary track.
"It would be good if we can have the new trails up and running before it closes," Mr Libricky said. "The first stage of design has already been submitted to the Department of Parks and Wildlife."
Augusta Margaret River councillors supported the groups efforts.
Councillor Ian Earl hopes the association soon gets tracks up and running.
"It's wonderful area of tracks for people on push bikes," he said.
"I wish the association all the best for getting tracks up and running in future years."
