Mr Taunton said the group’s registration was received too late for consideration. He had pinned his hopes on council raising it on behalf of the group but only three of council’s proposals got up [see separate story].

Mr Taunton said the group would now concentrate on applying for grants through the normal process.

“Council is right behind us on this,” he said.

“Now it’s a matter of seeking support from the state and federal governments.”

Mr Taunton said the profile of cycling in the region is higher than it has ever been, with Mark Renshaw competing in this year’s Tour de France.

He said the Bathurst Bike Park would be a bike nursery for champions from this region.

“The creation of this park would take the Bathurst region to the forefront of cycling in NSW.

“It would continue to further enhance Bathurst’s rapidly growing reputation as being the destination of choice for recreational sport and competitive cyclists alike.

“The growth of cycling not only in Australia but around the world is staggering and cities such as Brisbane Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide are constructing cycleways like there is no tomorrow,” Mr Taunton said.

If it does get off the ground the bike park will be located on the Vale Road adjacent to Omya Minerals.

The proposal includes a velodrome for track racing, a closed short circuit criterium racing course, closed long circuit kirmese road racing course, opportunities for further road race options, BMX track, mountain bikes downhill course, mountain bikes cross country circuit, bicycle education centre and a multi purpose club house and amenities block.