13,000 expected to take to saddle on mountain bike network

13,000 expected to take to saddle on mountain bike network

23 January 2013

UP to 13,000 cyclists are expected to use a new mountain bike network currently being established in Castlewellan, it has been claimed.

The network is currently being constructed around Castlewellan Forest Park and is due to open in the spring.

A special conference took place in Bryansford last week to highlight the potential of the network for local businesses. The event was officially opened by Down councillor, Stephen Burns, who believes the local economy can benefit from the new initiative.

Mr. Burns praised the hard work of all those involved in the project and encouraged local businesses to “pick up the reins” and complement the mountain bike trails with world class visitor facilities.

“We are very excited about the opportunities that the Castlewellan trails hold for our local accommodation providers, cafés, bars and restaurants,” he said.

“These trails will be a catalyst for tourism in this area and we are confident that the private sector will rise to the challenge of providing the highest quality visitor services to encourage bed nights and increase visitor spend in the local economy.

“The town has been successfully welcoming visitors to our park for many years. We are renowned for our warmth and welcoming hospitality. Compliment this Irish welcome with tailored ‘mountain bike friendly’ facilities, and I believe we can unlock Castlewellan’s potential as one of Ireland’s top activity tourism destinations,” he added.

The Castlewellan trails are one of four purpose-built trail centres currently under construction across the North.