THE Town of Bassendean is taking the first step toward delivering a nature-based jump or pump track, with council backing an investigation into potential sites for a small to mid-sized facility within the area.

The council unanimously supported the motion which requested Town of Bassendean chief executive officer Cameron Woods to investigate suitable sites, consult with the community once a site has been found and to restore damaged areas used as bike tracks.

Any potential location will need to avoid environmentally sensitive and residential areas.

Once a suitable site is identified and approved by council, the community will be invited to help shape a concept plan, with the project targeted for delivery in the 2026/27 financial year.

The proposed track is intended to provide riders with a safe, purpose-built space that can meet design standards and be appropriately managed and insured.

It is also expected to help reduce damage caused by informal bike tracks in unsuitable locations.

As part of the project, existing unauthorised tracks in inappropriate locations would be rehabilitated and revegetated once the new track site is available for use.

Part of the reason provided by the town for why the motion was proposed was to address various conflict issues from unauthorised informal tracks that were being built and the following disputes with non-riders.

Council also supported the idea of maintaining or co-managing the site with a formal rider group and approved a $20,000 allocation for investigation and planning work.

According to the town, involving interested community members in designing elements of a new dirt jump track will potentially deliver better outcomes for the riders and improved user experi- ence once the project is delivered.

Using quality materials instead also improves safety standards of the track.

Mayor Kath Hamilton said the investigation would help council find the right balance between supporting young people and protecting the town’s natural environment.

“This is about planning for a safer, purpose-built riding space while making sure we protect environmentally sensitive areas and respect nearby residents,” she said.

“If a suitable site is identified, we want the community and riders to help shape the concept, so the end result is a well-designed facility that meets local needs and supports better outcomes for the district.”