BISHOP Auckland MP, Dr Sam Rushworth, is concerned about the loss of bicycle tracks in Hamsterley Forest.
He said, “I recently visited Hamsterley Forest to see Danny Hart’s Descend Bike Park where young people were taking part in races. It was fantastic to see the excited participants and I was delighted to be invited to hand out some of the prizes.
‘Danny, a two-time World Champion mountain biker, runs the bike park with his family and has created something really special. It gives people of all ages and abilities, from children to experienced adults, the chance to get outdoors, get active, build confidence and friendships, and have something positive to work towards.
And, importantly, they have someone like Danny to look up to. The atmosphere on the day was fantastic. The children were clearly loving it, and it was great to see families and the wider community coming together around the sport.’
There is, however, a RISK OF CLOSURE surrounding this facility. And Dr Rushworth is very concerned about its future.
He explains further: “The owners recently came to one of my surgeries to raise their concerns. They have been told that the Forestry Commission does not intend to renew the lease when it expires, with part of the forest being felled, which could ultimately close the park.
“I believe this would be a real loss. Kids and adults use this as a training space, and at a time when we want to see young people spending less time on their phones and more time getting outside, being active and doing something they enjoy, facilities like this are incredibly important to give people something positive to focus on and creates opportunities for them to develop skills, confidence and friendships.
“It also brings visitors into the area and supports local businesses, including businesses in Bishop Auckland town centre like Inspiral Cycles. Danny Hart’s Descend Bike Park has become an important part of our local community, and I want to see it continue.
With the owners’ permission, I am speaking publicly about the threat to the bike park. We have written to the Forestry Commission and I will continue to engage with them and stay in touch with the owners to see what more can be done.
We should be looking at how we can keep opportunities like this open, not lose them.
