The Minister for Public Health and Sport, Shona Robison, and UCI Downhill World Champion, Steve Peat, today launched Scotland’s first framework for the sustainable development of mountain biking, at Bannerman High School in Glasgow.

Created by the Scottish Mountain Bike Development Consortium (SMBDC) the framework aims to build on the growth and success of mountain biking in Scotland by continuing to increase the visitor numbers  to Scotland, grow the number of Scots participating in the activity and develop and support Scots to win medals in national and international competitions.

Against a background of progress and success, key national agencies worked together to plan how best to sustain and grow mountain biking in Scotland in a way which provides optimum and quantifiable returns in terms of participation in mountain biking, economic and tourism development and also in terms of public participation and sporting development and success. This has been seen by the agencies as a unique opportunity to build on a fantastic Scottish success story.

Chairman of the SMBDC, Brian Porteus explains: “Being recognised as one of the best destinations in the world for mountain biking means we already have a great story to tell and the Framework brings together the key stakeholders so that we can build on this reputation and maximise the benefits to Scotland.”

The Minister for Public Health and Sport, Shona Robison adds: “This framework is an excellent example of public sector agencies working together with private and voluntary organisations to develop an activity in which Scotland is regarded as a world leader.

“Mountain biking already contributes a vast amount to Scotland offering opportunities for participation in sport, encouraging visitors to rural areas, attracting world class events and producing talented athletes.

“Delivering the framework will ensure that mountain biking is well placed to build on this effort and play its part in creating an Active Nation as we build up to the 2014 Commonwealth Games here in Glasgow.”

A three year programme to take the framework forward is being funded by SMBDC members SNH, sportscotland, Scottish Enterprise, FCS and CTC. Andrew Bachell, Operations Director for Scottish Natural Heritage said: “The after-school mountain biking club at Bannerman is a great example of how the framework wishes to see a broadening of those involved in mountain biking. It’s a great activity for all ages and abilities, and especially for young people and there are loads of places close to home where families can have fun and enjoy the outdoors. 

“Co-ordinating the development and promotion of sites and route networks at a regional scale – through Development Clusters – is something else the Framework will encourage as a way to make sure opportunities for mountain biking are planned with sustainability in mind.”

Steve Peat, UCI World Downhill Champion commented: “It is superb to be out in school grounds riding a mountain bike. I am excited that the sport in Scotland is looking to promote these kinds of opportunities and establish mountain biking as a sport for all in Scotland. I love coming to Scotland to ride with its stunning scenery and mind-blowing variety of trails and mountain bike facilities; it is a perfect place to be on your bike.”

Find out more at www.scottishmountainbikeframework.org