Unauthorised trails putting people and environment at risk

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is considering its options following the construction of an illegal mountain bike trail at Caberston in the Tweed Valley.

The trail – of which FLS recently became aware – has been built without permission   and developed outside any agreed planning, design or management framework.

In a unified voice, FLS alongside the Tweed Valley Trails Association (TVTA) and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS) have expressed great disappointment that the trail builders responsible failed to engage with the land manager or local trail association prior to starting work and ensuring the necessary approvals were in.

Unauthorised trail construction presents serious risks to the environment, to other forest users, and to the long-term future of mountain biking in the Tweed Valley. Such activity can lead to soil erosion, damage to watercourses, user conflict and unsafe riding conditions, while also undermining the strong partnerships that have helped establish the Tweed Valley as a globally recognised mountain biking destination.

FLS will now take an evidence-based approach to assess the trail and determine appropriate next steps.

FLS South Region Visitor Services Manager Martin Page said:

“Unauthorised trail building creates real risks for our land, water environment and for other people who use the forest. While we recognise the passion that exists for mountain biking in the Tweed Valley, it is essential that development happens in a responsible and agreed way.

“Our decision to assess this trail rather than close it immediately reflects the strength of our local partnerships, but it should not be seen as a precedent for future unauthorised activity.”

Partnership working between land managers and trail associations has already demonstrated several notable successes in the Tweed Valley this year alone. These include the completion of Lower Wolves, the reopening of Feed the Pony and Big Baw following harvesting operations and efficient storm damage clearance delivered through joint working between FLS and TVTA.

The organisations stress that the development of a sustainable plan in consultation and partnership with landowners is the only viable route to long-term trail sustainability.

Erik Smolenski, Chair of Tweed Valley Trails Association, said:

“The Tweed Valley’s reputation has been built on collaboration, trust and a shared commitment to doing things properly. Through partnership working we’ve shown that high-quality, sustainable trails can be delivered when the right processes are followed.

“TVTA will continue to work constructively with the community, land managers and trail builders to provide clarity on how trails can be developed and managed responsibly into the future.”

Graeme McLean, Head of Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, said:

“Scotland now has clear guidance on how mountain bike trails should be planned, built and managed, and that guidance exists to protect riders, communities and the environment. The Tweed Valley has already demonstrated how effective collaboration can deliver positive outcomes.

“This process is about being fair and developing a suitable, secure, and sustainable trail network and we hope, and believe, that trail builders and riders will get behind a long-term plan for the trail network.”

Background:

FLS has 16 mountain biking destinations with purpose-built routes stretching from the world class 7stanes that span the south of Scotland to the awe-inspiring landscapes of the northern highlands.These destinations offer a total of 69 formal and diversely graded trails with a combined total of nearly 600km.

Many of our forests throughout Scotland also offer great opportunities for mountain biking but don't consist of waymarked or formal trails. Mountain bikers are asked to share paths and trails with other users in a responsible, safe and respectful way.

FLS supports open access across a network of 3,700 km of trails and 10,000 km of forest roads that cater for cyclists, walker and horse riders.

Mountain biking | Forestry and Land Scotland

Trail Management Guidance for Mountain Bikers – DMBinS

Tweed Valley Trails Association (TVTA) | Home

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
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