I had a skim read of the consultation report and it was interesting to read that the main concern seemed to be around local economic damage as there would not be enough traffic to sustain facilities locally and the proposed hub so damaging local businesses by taking traffic away. Sometimes though 1+1 = 2, not 1.5, occasionally even 3.

 

The challenge of not having a hub, though, is that, by default, it will lead to fewer folk travelling to Tarland. Personally, I had thought I'll make the visit from London once the hub was in play. Not saying I won't come but that was my plan. However brilliant a trail centre is, the facilities a hub brings are core to attracting more users and making a centre more inclusive to all groups, especially families and those from further afield. It is also what drives the tourism aspect of a centre leading to increased footfall benefitting all businesses in the local area. If the community concern is fewer visitors and a fear of more visitors leads to a detriment locally then this action makes more sense although would seem counterintuitive as a goal. 

 

I feel the local community has done an act of self-harm if honest. It is the right plan and Tarland needs a hub in the trails to thrive economically and synergistically in the long term and I mean Tarland and the wider local economy, not just the trail centre.  

 

I’d imagine better rider stats will help and stronger case studies that prove the model. I’d keep promoting local businesses, community initiatives and the wider area the brilliant way they already do organically and go again when longer established and can prove it is a win-win for everyone which it should be. Lots to be getting on with I’d imagine however disappointing for everyone there. Keep the faith and as regards the hub find the right time and go again.