Aston Hill is a technical mountain trail in Buckinghamshire that attracts riders from all over the UK. Until recently, the future of Aston Hill was in doubt and the gates were often locked, disappointing many mountain bikers who wanted to ride the trails.
The new partnership agreement will ensure Aston Hill’s future; it will also provide funding for a team of Forestry Commission rangers who will look after the site. Aston Hill Mountain Bike Club will continue to manage the site on land owned by Forestry Commission.
Aston Hill’s technical trails are very different to the family cycling routes offered at nearby Wendover Woods. Aston Hill has reduced pressure and conflict on other sites within the wider Chilterns area, and has increased safety for all.
Senior Chairman of Aston Hill Mountain Bike Club Richard Abbott said: “I think I speak for all the guys that have worked so hard over the past year running the club when I say we are really excited about this new partnership. We have big plans for the future and with the help and cooperation of CTC and Forestry Commission hope to develop Aston Hill into the best mountain bike venue in the South of England.”
CTC’s senior off-road development officer Ian Warby said: “This partnership is great news. The Aston Hill Mountain Bike club has done a fantastic job maintaining and building new trails. The new membership will fund the continued development of the site and provide support for the club.”
CTC Aston Hill Membership is £68 and provides access during opening hours for a year, plus full CTC membership and third party insurance. There is a range of other memberships available, including junior membership and day passes.
CTC’s growing off-road team hope this will be the first of many partnerships with the Forestry Commission to keep the UK’s mountain biking trails open to the public.
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Good on the CTC for stepping up here. I wonder what the fee is for existing CTC members? For those of you not already involved, the CTC is well worth a look. There are numerous member benefits and the group is becoming more proactive in the mtb arena.