Help protect Chiselbury Grove Woodland

CHISELBURY GROVE WOODLAND – A CALL TO PROTECT OUR WOODLAND AND KEEP EVERYONE SAFE

A worrying trend has emerged over the past year in the woodland next to Old Blandford Road, known as Chiselbury Grove.

This woodland has long been a popular place for young people to explore, play and ride bikes. However, the growing popularity of mountain biking has led to the construction of unauthorised ramps, jumps and tracks within the woodland. While this may initially appear to be harmless fun and a positive way for young people to enjoy the outdoors, there are some serious concerns that need to be addressed.

SAFETY MUST COME FIRST

The ramps and jumps are often solidly constructed and positioned on steep slopes, without any formal safety assessment or consideration for the risks involved.

Even if those who build these structures have the skills to use them safely, other visitors may not and unwary dog walkers, runners and other woodland users could unexpectedly find themselves in the path of a cyclist.

Unlike an officially designed and managed mountain bike track, these unofficial routes have not been risk-assessed, clearly marked or designed with emergency access in mind. An accident could result in serious injury, with significant challenges for emergency services trying to reach someone in need.

PROTECTING OUR WOODLAND

There are also serious environmental concerns. Trees have repeatedly been cut down without permission to provide materials for ramps and jumps. This causes damage to the woodland and natural habitat. The unauthorised felling of trees also raises concerns about bladed tools being brought into a public space for this purpose.

THE CITY COUNCIL’S POSITION

The City Council, which manages the woodland, has removed ramps and jumps and appealed to those responsible to make contact so that the legal position and associated risks can be explained. Unfortunately, no one has come forward.

The substantial construction of some of these structures raises concerns that adults may also be involved. We therefore appeal to anyone involved, whether directly or indirectly, to stop building these unauthorised features.

ENJOY THE WOODLAND – BUT RESPECT IT

We recognise that mountain biking can be a fantastic activity for young people and adults alike and the woodland already offers natural features and obstacles for riders to enjoy responsibly, however, the construction of unauthorised jumps and ramps, and damage to trees and the woodland environment cannot go on.

The City Council has a responsibility to ensure that public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone. No individual activity should put other visitors at risk or cause damage to a shared natural environment.

Please help us protect Chiselbury Grove Woodland. If you are involved in building these structures, please stop. If you are a parent or guardian, please speak to young people about the risks and the importance of respecting this shared space.

Let’s keep our woodland a safe, welcoming and natural place for the whole community to enjoy.