Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) says it is considering its options after becoming aware of an unauthorised mountain bike trail build known as Mega Track at Caberston in the Tweed Valley. 

iBikeRide previously shared YouTube coverage of the trail when it launched. This update focuses on FLS’s latest position and the wider sustainability context in the Tweed Valley.

What FLS has said

• FLS says the trail was built without permission and outside any agreed planning, design or management framework.
• FLS says unauthorised trail construction can create risks including soil erosion, damage to watercourses, user conflict and unsafe riding conditions.
• FLS says it will take an evidence-based approach to assess the trail and decide next steps.
• FLS says it has chosen to assess the trail rather than close it immediately, and that this should not be treated as a precedent for future unauthorised activity.

In the release, FLS South Region Visitor Services Manager Martin Page said 

"Unauthorised trail building creates real risks for our land, water environment and for other people who use the forest. While we recognise the passion that exists for mountain biking in the Tweed Valley, it is essential that development happens in a responsible and agreed way. Our decision to assess this trail rather than close it immediately reflects the strength of our local partnerships, but it should not be seen as a precedent for future unauthorised activity.”

Joint position and local partners

FLS also published comments from Tweed Valley Trails Association (TVTA) and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS). FLS, TVTA and DMBinS said they were disappointed that those involved did not engage with the land manager or local trail association before work started.

TVTA Chair Erik Smolenski said the Tweed Valley’s reputation has been built on collaboration and partnership working, and that TVTA will continue working with the community, land managers and trail builders on responsible development and management.

DMBinS Head Graeme McLean referenced existing national guidance on how MTB trails should be planned, built and managed, and said the aim is to develop a suitable, secure and sustainable trail network.

Update from DMBinS and TVTA

In a separate social media update, DMBinS and TVTA said they are supporting and sharing FLS’s press release. They said an evidence- and risk-based assessment will determine the future of Mega Track.

DMBinS and TVTA also said the Tweed Valley needs a planned and agreed sustainable trail plan for new authorised trails, and improved management of existing trails. They said TVTA, supported by DMBinS, will engage with the local community and trail builders in the coming months as part of ongoing work to develop a Sustainable Trails Plan for the Tweed Valley, working in partnership with FLS and other land managers and guided by national trail guidance.

Recent examples of partnership work

FLS highlighted examples of recent partnership delivery in the Tweed Valley, including completion of Lower Wolves, the reopening of Feed the Pony and Big Baw following harvesting operations, and storm damage clearance delivered through joint working between FLS and TVTA.

What we don’t know

• Whether the trail will be modified, formalised through an agreed process, restricted, or removed.
• Any timeline for the assessment and a decision.
• Whether any interim measures will be introduced on the ground.

Links and background

• FLS news release: Unauthorised trails putting people and environment at risk
• Earlier iBikeRide coverage: TVTA working together on trail sustainability
• Trail listing: Innerleithen and the Golfie (Tweed Valley)

If anyone fancies lending a hand, keeping an eye out for local authorised dig days is a solid way to support the people maintaining the place.

What’s your take on the situation and what would you like to see happen next?