Enhanced safety on Stidwell Bridle Trail

Published on Monday, 16 September 2024 at 3:31:04 PM

Horse riders and their steeds will be safer on the Stidwell Bridle Trail with changes to restrict vehicle access and better protect the area following a recent local law determination by Council.

The change is a result of collaborative efforts between the City of Albany and the Friends of Stidwell Bridle Trail and supports the Determination of Council in 2023 to prohibit recreational 4WDs and motorbikes within the bridle trail.

The bridle trail was established for horse riders in 1999 and sits within a high priority public drinking water source area which is governed by state laws and policies that define permissible uses.

Restricting vehicle access to the horse trail seeks to address increasing safety issues for horse riders and enhance protection of the trail area.

Changes to the bridle trail include updated signage and gates to ensure that everyone is well informed about the new access regulations.

For the City and Friends of Stidwell Bridle Trail, this is the culmination of several years of collaboration and engagement to address ongoing issues and concerns with the bridle trail.

Friends of Stidwell Bridle Trail chairperson Samantha Stevens said it is an important improvement for the safety of horse riders using the trail.

“The Stidwell Bridle Trail is a much loved and well-used asset for those within the local horse-riding community, so ensuring it remains safe for users is paramount,” she said.

“On behalf of the Friends of Stidwell Bridle Trail I would like to thank the City for their ongoing work and discussions around this project.

“It is pleasing to know that horse riders can feel safe on the trail without the worry of vehicles potentially putting the safety of riders and horses at risk.”

Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the outcome supports the City’s focus on community safety.

“Council’s decision to restrict access to certain parts of the trail to horse riders and authorised vehicles is grounded in a commitment to safety,” he said.

“This will reduce the risk of accidents and disturbances to horses and riders on the Stidwell Bridle Trail and we appreciate the understanding and cooperation of everyone to adhere to the new rules.”

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