The read this!
The New Forest Association are not a happy bunch! And the Verderers will not be at all supportive of anyone who dares set foot in 'their forest' 
So, thanks Wiggle and UK Cycling Events!
Presentment to Verderers Court January 2012
The New Forest Association supports responsible cycling both on and off road within the New Forest and recognises it will grow. But the situation is not satisfactory and getting worse and NFA echoes the concerns made by the Commoners Defence Association at the November Court. We have come across a cycle sport event taking place, in part on Forest gravel tracks in April, which the website promotes by suggesting that cyclists ‘will want to set a good time as they blast around this flowing course.' 1 Is this how we want the Forest used? Is it the form of recreation that should be endorsed by the Commission and Park Authority?
The Verderers are to be congratulated for doing their own research into future recreational events and in their flexibility into avoiding a conflict in October by rearranging drift days. But is this their responsibly? Are these the right priorities?
The New Forest is not getting any bigger, but year by year demand for recreation increases and will continue to increase. When will the Commission and National Park Authority accept this truth and start dealing will the increasing conflicts?
New cycle routes have been suggested in the National Park Authority's Recreational Management Strategy.2 NFA contends this is premature - it is time to take stock. What are we trying to achieve? What have been the successes of the existing off road routes? What have been the failures and how can these be addressed? Is the limited space in the Forest being used efficiently? Is this open access area being afforded sufficient protection? What is the best way for more and more visitors to enjoy the Forest without destroying the very thing they have come to enjoy? Do the Commission have both the resources and will to manage and police this increased recreation? How can the increasing conflict, the subject of numerous presentments in this Court be avoided?
NFA urge the Verderers to seek from the Commission a review covering the management of recreation, the rationale of off road cycling, the success or otherwise of existing routes, an effective system of event management and policing, and suitable planning tools that will allow us to welcome ever more visitors with minimum damage to the environment and traditions of the precious and unique New Forest.
Notes
The Association regards the lawful use of cycling not only as beneficial to health but as a means to appreciate the wonderful wildlife and scenery that the New Forest offers. There are other forests with off-road tracks that are much better suited and appropriate for high speed mass cycling events. We ask that cyclists and those supporting cycling in the New Forest show consideration and respect for other users and work to protect and enhance the area that they value so much for their recreation.
1 http://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-new-forest-spring-mtb-ride-2012/
2 Recreational Management Strategy, NFNPA 2010, p 51
The New Forest Association, is a members based charity formed in 1867 to protect and conserve the New Forest. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
