Motorcycling NSW has abandoned plans for a motorsports complex at Yerriyong after the discovery of rare protected orchids on the site.
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A statement issued by general manager David Cooke on Friday said challenges ranging from environmental roadblocks and opposition by locals meant the project was continually stalled.
“A few years ago the existence of an orchid protected under State and Federal law as a ‘vulnerable’ species was found on the site, prompting a revision of the plans at that time to allow a buffer zone around the plants,” Mr Cooke said.
“In the last six months, further surveys by locals wanting to protect the site have uncovered more of the orchids, which brings the population to over 100, making it a significant population.”
He said the location of these orchids meant it was impossible to clear the site.
”This is a sad announcement for us, as it means the end of plans for a badly needed new road racing facility in NSW, and will also mean many of the plans we had for the existing Motocross facility at Yerriyong will also not go ahead, as they were dependent on the joint facility coming to fruition.”
Mr Cooke said Motorcycling NSW had spent well over $1 million on the proposal in the seven years it had been working on it. Wherever possible local consultants were employed to develop the plan.
He thanked supporters of the plan, including Joanna Gash, Ann Sudmalis, and the Shoalhaven City Council staff. He paid tribute to locals “who believed this project would be a win for the district and supported it”.