THE NATIONAL FOREST CYCLE CENTRE FEASIBILITY STUDY
An extensive feasibility study to look at the potential of developing a mountain bike circuit in the heart of the National Forest.
The National Forest is a brilliant and hugely ambitious project transforming a 200sq mile area of the Midlands by increasing woodland cover by a third.
The project was a National Forest partnership project (4 Counties, 6 Parish Councils, The National Forest Company & Forestry Commission England). Over 50 land packages were assessed in the study for suitability, 48 seperate land owners were consulted with, to establish land suitability and availability. The study included:
Route and concept development
Option appraisals
Consultations with landowners and community stakeholders
Statutory consultations
Trail design & standards
Risk assessment
Landowner liaison
Working with access partners
Developing the masterplan
Research & statistics
Business case
Project costing
Project planning
The study asked if at the heart of the forest a viable off mountain biking or off road cycling centre could be established.
The study concluded that a cycle centre, a new concept developed by Cartwright Associates, would be the most suitable business model for the region and land available.
The feasibility study provided the project detail, reasoning and business case for the projects funding bid that secured the £1.7m funding package from East Midlands Development Agency.
