British Cycling and the Forestry Commission have announced a ten year partnership agreement that is designed to bring more cycling events to 250,000 hectares of English forests and woodland.
The agreement will also provide a boost for the development of new trails and event venues, making up to 24 visitor centres nationwide.
Ian Drake, British Cycling’s CEO, said: “This partnership is crucial to the development of off-road cycling and mountain biking. By working together with the Forestry Commission we can further drive participation in our sport and identify areas of funding for future investment in trail centres and event venues.
“The new course in Dalby Forest, which was created for the recent World Cup, is now open for anyone to ride and is a good example of how the partnership will work to create new opportunities for more people to enjoy cycling in England’s most scenic beauty spots.
“The agreement covers all mountain bike disciplines of Cross Country, Downhill and Four Cross and is a significant step in driving the development of mountain biking in this country from the grass roots to a world-class level.”
Simon Hodgson, CEO at the Forestry Commission added: “Getting more people doing more things in our forests for their enjoyment, excitement and keeping them healthy is incredibly important to the Forestry Commission. Cycling is a great way for people to get out and experience woodlands whatever their level of experience.
“Together we will be able to organise more high-quality events and the recent Mountain Biking World Cup event at Dalby in Yorkshire is a fantastic example of what we can achieve. Not only does it raise awareness of cycling and the Forestry Commission but brings welcome income that we can reinvest to improve facilities locally.”
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