World-class off-road cycling across South West

The South West is set to become a world class destination for adventurous off-road cycling. A total of £7.5m is being invested in developing the activity across the region including funding of £4.6m from the Rural Development Programme for England. The Forestry Commission led 1SW initiative will be developing trails, sites and information across the whole region which will enhance the quality of experience for anyone who wants to enjoy off-road cycling. Developments will include purpose-built adventurous cycling trails, bike hire facilities, cafes, areas to develop bike handling skills and information on how and where to ride across the region. Paul Hawkins, 1SW Project Manager says: "The 1SW project will make off road cycling attractive and accessible to everyone, even to those who haven't ridden a bike for years! The region's tourism economy stands to benefit greatly with opportunities for a diverse range of businesses, from increased out-of-season accommodation demand to providing specialist services such as guided rides. "We will work with local businesses to ensure they maximise their benefit from the provision of this quality adventurous cycling product. Off road cycling in woodlands is enjoyable whatever the weather and provides a fun alternative to beach based activities, particularly outside of the main summer months." Stuart Parry from Era Adventures, Polzeath, says: "We run a successful business organising a range of adventure activities, based in North Cornwall. There is a need for more opportunities away from the coast, particularly when the surf is flat and the rain starts! We are very excited at the opportunities 1SW will provide for tourism businesses like us across the region and are keen to expand our offer to include more cycling and cycle training." Funding comes from the Rural Development Programme for England, which is partly funded by DEFRA and the EU. The funding is provided as part of a wider project under the Sustainable Rural Tourism Theme, managed by the South West RDA (regional development agency). Mike Johns of the South West RDA said: "The 1SW initiative is just one project in a far-reaching suite of interlinked investments that are being made through Sustainable Rural Tourism which will have a really significant impact across the whole region. "RDPE funding devoted to sustainable rural tourism is designed to have a lasting impact on the tourism industry in rural areas through investing in improved access to, and understanding of, the key features and rural heritage of the South West." "Equally important, 1SW also offers a tremendous opportunity for businesses close to the hubs and cycle ways to engage with 1SW and maximise the benefits for the local economy." The National Trust, South West Lakes Trust, the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and Bristol City Council are all key delivery partners in this project and are excited about broadening their visitor base. The project presents a significant opportunity as off-road cycling appeals to many 'non-traditional' visitors to the region’s countryside. Paul Hawkins adds: "We can't wait to get both tourists and residents out enjoying adventurous off-road cycling with their friends and families. A quality adventurous cycling product will be a huge boost for the region's cycling provision and will offer an adventurous riding experience to enable progression from routes like the highly successful Camel and Tarka trails." www.forestry.gov.uk