South east qld trail bike riders will have somewhere legal to ride after a 745 hectare site was approved for a dedicated trail bike facility.

The multi-million dollar facility has been set down for a site at Wyaralong in the Scenic Rim.

Premier Anna Bligh said the facility would give riders a long-awaited legal place to ride after Black Duck Valley was forced to close last December.

“Off-road trail bike riding is a legitimate recreational pursuit that is becoming increasingly popular in Queensland,” Ms Bligh said. “But illegal trail bike riding is a major issue in our suburbs and this new facility will give people a place to ride their motorbike legally.”

Planning for stage one of the park is expected to be finished by mid next year when the Council of Mayors takes over responsibility for its construction.

Stage one will include a camping facility, about 30km of trail, a natural terrain motocross course, a parking area and toilets.

Stage two will provide a motocross track including race tower, spectator area and starting gates, improved camping facilities, and additional trails and signage as well as a kiosk.

The Wyaralong site was chosen because of its terrain.

“The natural topography of the area also means that noise and dust will be largely contained in the park area,” Ms Bligh said.

Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor John Brent said the facility would be welcomed by the entire community.

“It offers many benefits to local community and surrounding areas,” Cr Brent said.

• By Allan H