Candidates have their say on possible location for a go-kart track

Bathurst Regional Council spent years pursuing a go-kart track on land at the back of McPhillamy Park, however, those plans were quashed when Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley made a Section 10 declaration on that same land in May.

Council is now in the very early stages of assessing an idea to construct the track in the vicinity of the old drive-in site and Rayner's Orchard.

It comes after council resolved in June to "fast-track the development of an international length go-kart track" at that site.

With the local government election approaching, the Western Advocate asked candidates if they would support a go-kart track in that location and how it should be funded.

READ MORE: We put these questions to the Bathurst council candidates. Here's what they said

Most supported the new location.

Incumbent councillors Warren Aubin, Bobby Bourke, Alex Christian, Graeme Hanger and Ian North all supported the resolution at the June council meeting.

Councillors Jess Jennings and Jacqui Rudge were the only incumbents to oppose the idea that night.

Cr Monica Morse supported the resolution but is not seeking re-election, and Cr John Fry was an apology at the June meeting.

READ MORE: Bathurst council agrees to fast-track the go-kart track in new site

He stated his team's position in the Western Advocate's candidate questionnaire.

"We support the construction of state government/privately funded go kart track on the best location," he said.

"Experts have told us that the Rayners Orchard site will not comply with noise impacts."

Some of the new candidates agree with him, also expressing concern about noise.

Stuart Driver, Geoff Fry, Nick Packham came across as the most hesitant about the potential noise impacts, but they still want to see a go-kart track established at a suitable location in Bathurst.

"There is merit in Bathurst having a go-kart track and if we have one, have one of international standard," Mr Driver said.

Other candidates who support the track in that location, if noise concerns are addressed, include Ben Fry, Marg Hogan, Jeff Muir, Steve Semmens, Bob Singleton, Catherine Strods, and Robert 'Stumpy' Taylor.

"I would support a go-kart track at that location, but it needs to be mostly privately funded," Mr Semmens said.

"The state government may be able to assist. I don't believe it should cost ratepayers."

Stuart Pearson said he wanted to discuss the location with the Bathurst Kart Club before providing a comment, while several solo candidates did not respond to the questionnaire.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: