Contractor appointed for new £1.5m mountain bike scheme

Contractor appointed for new £1.5m mountain bike scheme

12 July 2011

AMBITIOUS plans for a £1.5m mountain bike project in the Castlewellan and Rostrevor areas has taken an important step forward.

A contractor to develop new trails in the Mournes has been appointed with work expected to get underway in the New Year, providing a major boost for local tourism.

Down Council will project manage the scheme which will result in the Mournes becoming the first elite mountain bike destination in Ireland.

News the contractor has been appointed has been welcomed by South Down Assemblyman Willie Clarke and councillors Stephen Burns and Paul Gribben.

Mr. Clarke said the potential benefits of the mountain bike project include an investment in the rural area of approximately £1.5m.

“This scheme will attract increased numbers of visitors to the area and help encourage the development of sustainable tourism in South Down,” he said.

“Off-road cycling would ensure improved opportunities for local people to take part in a safe and enjoyable activity and encourage local riders to train for competition and adopt healthy lifestyles.”

Mr. Clarke said he is also hopeful the investment will result in a reduction in illegal mountain bike trails which he said are often “unsafe and can cause damage to the environment and conflict with other forest users.”

Councillor Burns said activity tourism delivers the potential of all year tourism, regardless of weather, as well as additional bed nights and increased spends in the rural economy.

“Other benefits include the ability of the mountain bike project to support our local cycling clubs and outdoor pursuit businesses. I would hope that in the future we would be in a position to attract international competitions and events to the Mournes,” he added.

Councillor Gribben said an improved profile of the Mournes as a tourist destination for overseas visitors can only be advantageous.

He said it is estimated the mountain biking ‘product’ plays an important role in the Scottish economy, generating £119m per year with predictions that this will grow to £155m annually within the next five years.

Councillor Gribben added: “With mountain biking set to become Scotland’s most popular adventure activity after walking, South Down has the potential to be Ireland’s number one activity tourism destination.”