The Warburton Mountain Bike Destination is being developed in a significant natural and cultural environment. Council is working with Parks Victoria, Department of Environment Land Water and Planning (DELWP), Melbourne Water and Zoos Victoria to deliver the best possible result for the project and the environment.

Protecting plants and animals in the area is critical for this project. Council has established an expert panel to make sure that impacts to threatened species and vulnerable and sensitive environmental areas are minimised.

To protect the important environmental and cultural values of the region, Council will use sensitive design, effective risk management and leading-edge construction techniques to deliver the trail network.

This includes a 20-metre leeway for the trail alignment, so it can be constructed around trees and sensitive areas to preserve the environment.

The trails would give the community more access to the Yarra Ranges’ natural environment. Educational signage would be placed along the trails, giving visitors an insight to local history and culture.

As a result of the project, illegal and informal trails on public land will be reviewed or closed, leading to rehabilitation of these areas.