The Future of Hamsterley Forest: Proposed Cabin Development and Its Implications for MTB

Hamsterley Forest, in County Durham, is the subject of a proposed development plan. I wanted to take a look at the implications for the MTB community. 

Overview of the Proposed Plans

The development, spearheaded by Forest Holidays, a B Corp certified business, includes several key components:

1. Cabin Construction: The centerpiece of the plan is the construction of 70 cabins designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment.
2. Forest Retreat: A new facility will serve as a reception area, shop, and café, providing essential services to visitors.
3. Mountain Biking Trail Expansion: A new blue-grade mountain bike trail is already under construction, aimed at enhancing riding options for intermediate-level mountain bikers.
4. Cycle Hub and Hire Facility: This new facility will cater to cyclists, offering bike rentals and maintenance services.
5. Visitor Center Improvements: The existing visitor center will undergo renovations to include increased café space, improved restroom facilities, and meeting/classroom spaces.
6. Outdoor Adventure Course: A Go Ape adventure course is set to be added, providing additional recreational opportunities for families and thrill-seekers alike.
7. Parking Enhancements: Plans include expanded parking facilities with more Blue Badge spaces and electric vehicle charging points.
8. New Camping Area: Dubbed 'The Nest,' this area will feature a 48-bed bunkhouse along with dedicated space for tents, shepherd's huts, and small vans.
9. Habitat Enhancement Plans: Long-term plans for habitat enhancement aim to protect and promote local wildlife within the forest.

Potential Community Benefits

The proposed developments are designed to

• improve visitor experiences and
• boost the local economy by creating new jobs and attracting more tourists to the area

Concerns from the Community

Despite these potential benefits, there are significant concerns among local residents and forest users:

1. Environmental Impact: Critics argue that the construction of cabins and associated infrastructure could lead to habitat destruction and negatively affect existing trails.
2. Increased Traffic: The influx of visitors staying in cabins may result in congestion on local roads, making access more difficult for mountain bikers and other users.
3. Crowding on Trails: With more visitors expected in the forest, existing trails may become overcrowded, leading to conflicts between different user groups.
4. Loss of Tranquility: Many forest users value Hamsterley Forest for its natural beauty and tranquility; there are concerns that increased commercialization could detract from this experience.

The Hamsterley Forest Action Group has expressed opposition to the cabin development (less so the rest of the proposal).

Current Status

As of October 2024, the development proposal is still under consideration. The new blue-grade mountain bike trail is already under construction, while other aspects of the plan await approval and implementation. This development plan represents a significant potential change for Hamsterley Forest, with implications for its environment, recreational uses, and the local community. The final impact will depend on how the development is implemented and managed if approved. 

iBikeRide Opinion on the MTB Community Impact

• New blue-grade trail and cycle facilities will benefit riders and could enhance Hamsterley Forest's reputation as a premier destination for mountain biking and outdoor activities.
• Potential for increased trail usage and possible crowding
• Some off-piste trails will likely be affected by cabin construction but maybe these can be rebuilt nearby

Overall I think forests are limited in what they can do commercially through logging, car park fees and associated tariffs on activities to drive funds and so I am a supporter of the local tourism economy (of which cycling is part of that tapestry) as it benefits the forest and the wider community as an income stream. I think this proposal will drive the local tourism economy and also I would like to think MTB'ers from afar will take advantage of the on site accommodation so close to the trails and travel and stay there.

So as a community, I feel we need to embrace tourism economic opportunities so forests remain viable but it would be so much better if there was tracking of MTB visitors ' spending (direct and indirect) so we could clearly articulate the pound note value we are bringing into forests. Today this tracking doesn't significantly exist. 

What do you think? 

Check out Hamsterley it's an awesome place to ride.

Published: 05/10//2024