Popular mountain biking dirt jump trail removed from Sherwood Pines forest after rise in accidents

The Government agency has dismantled the dirt jump zone, built as part of a £300,000 National Cycling Centre of Excellence project in 2008, which has proved a big draw among more than half a million people who visit the site each year.

Forest centre manager Ryan Laviolette said: “The ‘big air’ jumps are part of the bike park which was built for experienced riders aspiring to an elite level of technical ability.

“However, the number of inexperienced riders using the dirt jumps has reached the point where it is unacceptable to us and our local emergency services.”

He added: “Forestry England has been building and running mountain biking facilities for decades and takes its responsibilities to riders very seriously.

“Across the country we manage the risks that come with this potentially hazardous activity and at Sherwood Pines we are a definite destination for riders who appreciate our well-managed yet exciting to ride trails.”

The pandemic has seen a record number of visitors on the forest’s bike trails, and an increase in accidents has not been the only drawback.

The dirt jump area has also become a litter hotspot from the many people gathering around to watch.

Forestry England recreation manager Jason Maclean said: “Removing the bike jumps is just one of the tough decisions we’ve had to make recently.

“But we are still investing and improving, so want to reassure people that there are some really exciting developments in the works for Sherwood Pines.”

The forest is still home to a number of trails suitable for beginners up to experienced levels, as well as routes for runners, walkers and, coming soon, disc golf players.