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The Forestry Commission has put out a tender seeking assistance in developing 62,000 hectares of Northumberland wilderness into a mountain bike haven.
Plans include a stunning new £250,000 bike hire centre, made from timber and with 200 square metres of floor space, which is nearing completion.
Dynamic individuals and businesses are now being invited to tender to run this state-of-the-art facility.
Alex MacLennan, recreation and tourism manager with the Forestry Commission, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to join a biking revolution in one of Britain’s most breathtaking corners. We will be looking for a compelling business plan and a clear vision for the future. The hire centre is located at the hub of the new trails near Kielder Castle and so will be a major focal point. It’s key that the successful applicant is capable of taking the mountain bike scene forward for all levels of cyclists. They will need to share our drive to make Kielder the nation’s pre-eminent off-road venue."
It is hoped to have the hire centre operational by July.
According to the latest figures, Kielder Water & Forest Park attracts 300,000 people very year and a growing proportion of these are off road bikers.
Tender documents are available online at www.forestry.gov.uk/northeastengland. These documents should be re-submitted by mid-April.
Forestry Commision: 01434 220242
