The Forestry Commission is commited to raising visitor safety standards across the entire national forest estate in Britain.
Due to the huge rise in the popularity of mountain biking, the Commission has identified it as a key area for action.
We are keen to reduce unnecessary risks in mountain biking but still keep the fun factor and challenges of trail riding top of the agenda.
Guidance for management of mountain biking facilities
We have produced several documents which provide guidance and set out best practice approaches to trail development, management and maintenance.
Operational Guidance Booklet 37
This document details the corporate requirements for cycling and mountain biking developments and their management on the national forest estate. It is available to the general public on request: email John Ireland for more information: John.ireland@forestry.gsi.gov.uk.
Practice Guide
This document sets out good practice in the broad management of mountain biking as practised by the Forestry Commission on the national forest estate. It will be published here once available.
Field Guide
The Field Guide will set out the technical specifications and details for existing and prospective managers of mountain bike facilities. It will be published here once available.
If you would like more information on the documents above or on safety aspects of mountain biking on the national forest estate, contact John Ireland at john.ireland@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
