Cafeside MTB, the community-driven bike park project on Haldon Hill near Exeter, continues to make steady progress toward a 2025 opening. Recent months have seen significant developments in lease negotiations, planning support, and on-site trail maintenance—even as challenges with funding and approvals remain.
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If you missed the earlier February update, you can catch up here: Cafeside MTB Progress Update and 2025 Plans.
Lease Nearing Completion
After formally agreeing to Heads of Terms in March, the Cafeside team received the draft lease from Forestry England in early May. They’ve since been working with their solicitors to review the document, with revisions due back to Forestry's legal team shortly. Insurance quotes for public liability and volunteer cover are in place and ready to activate once the lease is signed.
Planning Developments
With planning costs still a concern, the team put formal applications on pause while scoping legal and fencing expenses. However, there’s now positive momentum: a local planning consultancy has stepped in to offer pro-bono support. Together they are preparing to re-submit the Certificate of Lawful Use (CLUED) and will soon reach out to the riding community for testimonials to support the application.
Trail Work On Site
Despite the trails remaining officially closed, the team has been regularly maintaining the site, including repairing features on “About Time” and scoping a new entry line—“New Intro”—to connect to Rusty Pram and Slush Puppy. A local fencing company has offered support, and discussions are underway to secure affordable pricing for essential crossing-point fences.
Interim Car Parking
Cafeside is also in talks with a nearby business to provide off-site parking. The proposed arrangement would allow Cafeside visitors to use a large, dedicated car park just a short ride from the entrance—helping move the park closer to an initial opening even without the permanent on-site facility.
Finances and Funding
The project continues to rely on community support. Legal fees alone are projected at £3,000, fencing at £2,500, and planning costs could climb further. Donations via their Crowdfunder page remain crucial, and the team has joined a Sport England seminar series to explore matched funding opportunities.
Community Support Still Key
The Cafeside team—Ben, Andy, James, Jake, Katie, and Katherine—extend their thanks for the ongoing support and patience. They’ll soon be calling on past riders for written evidence to help with the planning application, so keep an eye out.
Stay updated via Cafeside MTB’s social media and consider donating or spreading the word if you can.
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