Motorcycle track closer to the start line
A MOTORCYCLE track for Murwillumbah was one step closer last night when the council approved a lease.
Tweed Valley Junior Development Motorcycle Club needed the lease approval from Tweed Shire Council as owners of the former landfill site before the club could submit a development application.
The land leased from the council for the proposed dirt track is at Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah.
The lease approval was delayed in November so councillors could have a workshop.
While the lease was approved, there were some concerns expressed from councillors Katie Milne and Gary Bagnall.
Both councillors voted against the lease approval that was passed five votes to two.
Cr Gary Bagnall said there was concern over neighbouring habitat.
"Since the dump has closed down there has been a number of birds that have started nesting in this area," Cr Bagnall said.
"I would also like to see a report on the contamination of the site."
He said any earthworks on the site could disturb the soil and cause contaminants to escape.
Cr Milne said there was "significant community concern" over the site being so close to the centre of Murwillumbah.
Councillor Warren Polglase said he was amazed at the criticism even before the development application was lodged.
The club needed the lease agreement before it could lodge a development application when the merits of the development would be assessed and community feedback would be sought.
"It amazes me sometimes what we are doing," Cr Polglase said.
"There has to be consent (of the lease) for the DA to be lodged. The club might get advice that it should not proceed we just don't know.
"Aren't we a council that is trying to promote youth activities."
The club has approval to lease the about five hectare block for five years at $250 a year pegged to any inflation.
