Castle Hill is set to undergo the first of two annual hazard reduction burns this Sunday, with Castle Hill Road and tracks to be closed.
Townsville Mayor Troy Thompson said the road and track closure would take place from midday on Sunday 14 July and re-open around 8pm, pending conditions.
"The first Castle Hill hazard reduction burns are set to take place this Sunday, weather permitting and will mean that the road and all tracks will be closed to the public from noon," Cr Thompson said.
"Hazard reduction burns play an important part in reducing the risk of bushfires. Often partnering with other agencies, Council is able to significantly reduce the risk during bushfire season."
Cr Thompson said two burns would be required on Castle Hill with the second scheduled to take place the following Sunday – 21 July, weather permitting.
"This first burn will cover between Potts St in Belgian Gardens to Castle Hill Road and include the West Ridge Track, an area of approximately 30 hectares," Cr Thompson said.
"Next week's secondary burn be about 31 hectares and will cover the area between the Goat Track and Maiden Hair track, Southern side of Wills Street, Scully Street, Wilson Court, and Church Street.
"These burns will be undertaken alongside Queensland Fire Department (QFD) and the Department of Resources and we're encouraging all residents to be aware, take care and follow all directions from Council and QFD.
"The closures will be in place from midday on Sunday, so those early morning Hill users will not be impacted, but for any afternoon exercisers, we thank them and the residents for their patience."
Residents with medical conditions that may be affected by smoke from grass fires are encouraged to take precautions in case smoky conditions affect them during this time.
The controlled burns on Castle Hill are being conducted in partnership with QFD and the Department of Resources and are scheduled to take place from 12pm Sunday 14 July and Sunday 21 July.
