Cessnock City Council has supported the ongoing involvement of the Richmond Vale Rail Trail by committing $30,000 to the project’s first stage of trail development.
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The Richmond Vale Rail Trail spans across three local government areas – Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Cessnock, using 34 kilometres of disused rail corridor as a shared cycle way from Kurri Kurri to Hexham.
This project is positioned to be the fourth rail trail project in the Hunter Region following the Fernleigh Track, Glendale to Wallsend Cycleway and the Fassifern to Toronto Rail Trail.
Mayor of Cessnock, Cr Bob Pynsent said the trail offered a special opportunity for residents in providing a safe commute for cyclists while preserving the rich mining history of our region.
“This project would see environmental, social and health benefits to the local area with wider benefits for the community such as improved amenities and an increase in visitors,” Cr Pynsent said.
Upon completion the project is estimated to cost $14 million with a projected return of investment of $5.2 million annually attributed to day trips and overnight stays.
The first stage of trail development is expected to start towards the end of 2015.
For the full council report visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au.