The Logan Village to Yarrabilba Rail Trail (Qld) detailed design and feasibility study has been completed

The 3.5km trail will be built on a disused rail spur line, which was transferred to Council as road reserve. It is flanked mostly by natural bushland. This rail trail is attached to the Bethania to Beaudesert Rail Trail.

Delivery of the rail trail was a key priority project identified from the Logan Village Forum hosted by Council in March 2018. In April last year, a further $200,000 funding grant was secured through the State Government’s Rail Trail Local Government Grants (RTLGG) program to finalise the feasibility study and detailed design of the trail. If funding is secured construction on the trail can commence towards the end of 2020 and will be completed within 6 months.

Council will now undertake final detailed design (90%DD) and tender documentation with the aim to commence construction once additional funding is secured. It is proposed that the 3.5km trail be developed with a durable surface, which will consist of either bitumen or concrete. Where the trail interfaces with the existing footpath network in Yarrabilba and Logan Village proposed concrete surface will seamlessly tie in with the existing infrastructure. At this stage it is proposed that the trailheads for the Logan Village to Yarrabilba Rail Trail will be situated at Buxton Park in Yarrabilba and at the Logan Village Green. The trail design includes two watercourse crossings, to provide flood free access for people along the trail.

The Feasibility Study identified a number of benefits:
• economic benefits to the places where the trail starts and finishes resulting in a boost to businesses associated with the trail;
• social and physical health benefits; and
• a range of environmental and cultural benefits.

It is estimated that the trail will attract local users and day-trippers and will develop stronger physical connections between Logan Village and Yarrabilba, is a critical off-road link, providing recreation and active transport opportunities for school children and workers.

The benefit of the new trail is that it provides an opportunity for a significant number of local users who are looking less for a unique opportunity than for an easily accessible recreation opportunity. The primary benefits come in providing a safe off-road cycling and walking opportunity for local residents.

Council has also submitted an EOI for funding under the State Government’s Rail Trail Local Government Grants (RTLGG) program for funding of the design and feasibility of the Rail Trail along the Bethania – Logan Village (approximately 10.5km) section of the Bethania to Beaudesert railway line. The outcome for this funding has not yet been finalised however if successful the design will enable a link to the Logan Village to Yarrabilba Rail Trail and open up more opportunities to attract visitation.