Plans to make Nannup a world-class cycling mecca has moved closer after the state government announced it would contribute funds to launch a trails project.
The WA Government has partnered with the Shire of Nannup to establish the South-West town as a trails hub for cyclists and committed $15,000 from the Forests Product Commission and $133,000 from Lotterywest.
The funding will go towards the development of a cycling masterplan, and the preparation of documents to sanction cycling trails in the Shire of Nannup.
The trails hub is set to increase tourism and stimulate the local economy as well as engage communities and strengthen the relationship between active forest users and forest management practices.
The FPC is committed to supporting tourism opportunities in regional areas connected to WA's vibrant forestry industry to support jobs and regional economies.
Shire of Nannup president Tony Dean said the project would enable Nannup to work towards its goal of becoming the South-West's cycling central and a dedicated trail town.
Mr Dean said Nannup was well positioned with the river, great scenery, hills and connectivity to neighbouring towns to promote cycling as an economic driver and social stimulator for the town and region."
It is expected the masterplan will take six months to complete and a further 12 months to construct the trails once funding was secured.
"The trails will be located at Tank Seven and Tank Eight to the east of the Nannup town site," Mr Dean said.
"There will be approximately 30 kilometres of networked trail that will be a combination of endure, cross country and downhill."
Mr Dean said the potential of cycling as an economic stimulator was immense, due to its proximity to Margaret River, and once the Busselton Margaret River Airport was open for commuters it would open up new markets for adventure tourism.
"In the past year Nannup has seen a trails transport company open business, three cafes change hands that cater to cyclists and a bike hire and maintenance shop commence trading."
Forestry minister Dave Kelly said the Government was extremely proud to be part of this project that will help drive tourism in Nannup supporting the local economy and jobs.
"Forestry, alongside tourism and other industries, contribute to the economic diversity of regional communities and ensure they remain strong," he said.
Parliamentary secretary to the minister for forestry Chris Tallentire MLA said as an avid cyclist himself, he was excited to see the development of a cycling masterplan and could not wait to explore more of this beautiful region.
