The Cessnock local government area is home to many recreational trails, including informal trails located in the Hunter Valley wine district, national parks and other natural areas.
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To date, the trails are not formally mapped and their condition unknown.
Cessnock City Council's draft Trails Strategy aims to rectify this by providing a vision for the trails network that is supported by a consistent policy framework to guide the development and management of the city's local trails.
The draft strategy - which is now on public exhibition - has been guided by feedback gathered via a number of community engagement activities conducted in 2019.
These included online surveys and community workshops where residents were invited to contribute through a series of discussions.
The development of this strategy has focused on walking/running, mountain biking, horse riding and all-abilities access trails, and while not the focus of the strategy, some consideration has been given to trails used by cars, four-wheel drives and motorbikes that may complement the recreational trails network.
Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent said the strategy will allow for both residents and visitors to the area alike to enjoy more of the natural beauty of the area.
"We have some beautiful natural bushland areas right on our doorstep. This strategy is a way for us to ensure that people can get out there and really enjoy these spaces," Cr Pynsent said.
"We encourage all residents to take the time to provide feedback."
The draft Trail Strategy will be on public exhibition until Friday, February 28 at cessnock.nsw.gov.au, council's administration building, Cessnock and Kurri Kurri libraries and Branxton Post Office.
