Businessman and motocross enthusiast Paul Adams could possibly enter into a joint venture with the Casey Council for an indoor motocross facility in Casey. 85041 Picture: DONNA OATES
By Bridget Cook
PLANS for a world-class indoor motocross facility in Casey could be closer to fruition after a local businessman has shown interest in entering into a joint venture with the council to make it possible.
In 2004, Narre Warren North resident Paul Adams attempted to get an indoor motocross arena built in Casey.
He had all the plans, permits and necessary approvals for it go ahead but said the land sale fell through at the last minute.
Last month, Mr Adams read the article in the News about Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon’s call for council officers to investigate the possibility of an indoor motocross centre in Casey.
Mr Adams said he could possibly be willing to invest in such a facility again, if the council can find him the appropriate land.
“I now have the permit for the building, but not the land available for it,” he said.
“I’ve gone in and out of tenders for particular sites in Casey and Greater Dandenong.
“But when it gets to the crux of it, I just can’t get the land needed.
“The land would have to be in an Industrial 1 Zone, not in residential.
“This is a multi-million dollar facility. It would be great if the council could support us with the land somewhere.”
Mr Adams, who is former professional rider, said he envisioned not only a large motocross facility, but a multi-purpose venue.
“This would not just be for motocross, but also for events to be held in it,” he said.
“There could be events of state significance, BMX championships, indoor rodeo or a farming expo.
“It would be particularly large, 65 metres wide, 180 metres long with 13 metre high ceilings.
“It would be a community-based type facility.
“It would also have a pick-up and delivery service for those who can’t get their bikes there.
“We would run school holiday programs for bikes enthusiasts.
“It would also generate employment for the local area.”
Mr Adams said the facility – Arena X – would not just be for the pros but riders of all ages and abilities, including three and four-wheel riders.
Mr Adams said a facility like this was desperately needed.
“This would get kids off the roads and off the streets,” he said.
“I had a close friend who was seriously injured riding through a back paddock.
“There is also a lot of illegal riding around at the moment.
“For me to go riding, with my two boys, I have to go to Wonthaggi or Moe.
Mr Adams said he didn’t believe it would take long to get up and going if the land was available.
“I have the plans drawn up, EPA tests and noise tests done.
“This could all follow through at another venue quite easily and could be up and running in a six-month period.”
Mr Adams is expected to meet with the council to discus in the near future.
Councillor Amanda Stapledon said the council needed to consider facilities for motocross.
“Given we are unable to partner with Cardinia Shire and we have not been able to identify any available land with a sufficient buffer for an outdoor facility, why not look into building a facility much like The Shed to accommodate our bike enthusiasts in Casey and throughout the region,” she said.
“With diminishing available land because of development, there’s less and less land for our motocross riders to ride safely.”
