BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Retired Welsh world downhill mountain biking champion Manon Carpenter has added her support to Cycling UK’s Trails for Wales campaign in a short video here.
Trails for Wales campaign is a joint call from Cycling UK and OpenMTB to support the Welsh Government’s proposed changes to open up rural spaces for cycling where appropriate.
The Welsh Government’s consultation, ‘Taking forward Wales’ sustainable management of natural resources’, proposes changes to allow cycling and horse riding on footpaths where suitable – a move welcomed by Cycling UK and OpenMTB in their consultation response.
Currently, cycling and horse riding are only permitted on 21 per cent of the entire rights of way network in Wales. This prevents people using many tracks and trails which are eminently suitable for cycling, whilst allowing them to cycle on muddy bridleways a 4×4 would struggle to cope with.
Trails for Wales currently has over 4,500 signatures in support.
Manon Carpenter commented: “I think the Welsh Government are 100 per cent right to encourage the population to get out and enjoy being outside and in the Welsh countryside because it’s a great asset and it’s a great way to spend your time. It would be great to see the Welsh Government lift restrictions. I support Trails for Wales because I think it will allow for bigger and better adventures and days out on the bike. Head to www.cyclinguk.org/trails-for-wales to lend your support too.”
