A decision on whether a recreation reserve in Cromwell was an appropriate location for a BMX bike park was postponed this week.
The Cromwell Community Board considered granting a lease over part of the Neplusultra Recreation Reserve for a bike park, but delayed its decision until technical aspects of the process were sorted out, including the status of the reserve's management plan.
The Cromwell Lions Club, which has land next to the site, supported the lease in principle.
Club president Greg Wilkinson said a bike park would be a "valuable recreational amenity".
The club had some concerns about security and access and believed toilets would be needed at the site if the bike track went ahead.
Five opposing submissions were received, one signed by 10 people.
The main concerns were the loss of a passive recreation space, potential for anti-social behaviour, vandalism and noise.
Lawyer Kristy Rusher said the board had followed a flawed process.
It was required to consider other possible locations for a bike park, do a cost-benefit analysis and consider the wider implications of its actions.
"We believe we're sound in the process we've followed to date," Central Otago District Council chief executive Phil Melhopt said.
John Quinn, spokesman for the newly formed Neplusultra Reserve Residents Association, said the group's concerns had not been given the weight they deserved.
The reserve management plan was overdue for review, he said.
Board chairman Neil Gillespie agreed the board had to find out the status of the plan before making any decision on the lease.
After the meeting, Cromwell Bike Park member Paul Bisset said it was a "frustrating process" for the group to go through.
"However, we trust the elected members of the community board to make the correct decision for the entire community and will let that due course take place."
