Developing a forest cycling and mountain biking strategy
 Introduction by Alan Stevenson, Head of Communities, Recreation & Tourism, Forest Enterprise ScotlandOver the past 5 years there has been phenomenal growth in the use of the national forest estate by cyclists, most especially those with mountain bikes. This has been accompanied by significant investment not only by Forestry Commission Scotland but also by other public agencies. These developments seek to realise a number of public benefits including economic returns for rural localities through increased tourism and also more healthy lifestyles through increased physical activity. Much of this has been possible through the enthusiastic participation of bikers, our staff and partners in the development of trails. Much has been learnt on the way through, but there is still a lot to do and much that we can do better. The reportThe report available on this page is an independent study by David Bullough and his associates at Tourism Resources Company, which was commissioned by Forestry Commission Scotland. It will provide a useful source of advice, inspiration and rationale for guiding the development of a strategy and the implementation of an action plan for cycling and mountain biking on the national forest estate in Scotland over the next 5 – 10 years. Some of the recommendations require immediate attention and can be readily addressed. Others will require careful consideration, further research, and, if they are to move forward, planning and sourcing of the necessary cash for investment. The report was open to public consultation from March 2006 to mid-July 2006. Responses will be considered and further information published on this page in due course. Alan Stevenson
Head of Communities, Recreation & Tourism
Forest Enterprise Scotland
Inverness
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