Forest Chiefs Seek Business Partner to Develop Cycling in Kielder

An exciting business opportunity has arisen in Kielder Water & Forest Park to be part of one of the North's most dynamic tourism developments.

The Forestry Commission is seeking a partner to run the Kielder Cycle Centre, offering a full range of bike services, including cycle hire, and helping to develop mountain biking for people of all abilities.

The 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) Northumberland beauty spot has emerged as a major cycling destination. Over the past seven years 120 kilometres of acclaimed trails have been built, ranging from family-orientated routes such as the Lakeside Way and the intermediate Osprey Trail to the famed black-rated Deadwater Fell run, the highest off-road route in England. Visitor numbers are growing and now stand at 345,000 per year. The venue has also been shortlisted by the North East England Tourism Awards in the tourism experience category.

Alex MacLennan, Forestry Commission Public Affairs Manager for North East England, explained:

"This rugged wilderness is mountain bike heaven, offering some of the best singletrack trails in the UK, with breath-taking views. We are seeking a partner who can match our ambition and help us take cycling on to the next level. We anticipate the Kielder Cycle Centre will be up and running by late spring, ready for the new season. A vast amount of development has been invested in Kielder Water & Forest Park, which has lured bikers of all abilities and attracted major competitions, such as the Montane Kielder 100, the UK's longest single-lap, 100-mile race. This is a wonderful opportunity to be part of a success story and help shape exciting developments."

To download the tender document and guidance notes please visit www.forestry.gov.uk

Tenders must be submitted together with a business plan no later than 8 February 2013.

You will also need to register your interest in tendering by 28 January 2013.

Further details and hard copies of the documents can be obtained from:
Alex MacLennan
Recreation & Public Affairs Manager (North East)
Forestry Commission
North England Forest District
Eals Burn
Bellingham
Northumberland
NE48 2HP

Tel: 01434 220242.
Email: [email protected]