Ain't no mountain high enough?
For the bikers of Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes and the surrounding area there is one figurative mountain that is too high to scale. Funding for a new 20 year lease of the land that their downhill trails and dirt-jump tracks lie upon is proving difficult to find. The trails are due to be flattened soon unless money can raised to extend the life of this hidden gem.
Some of the best riders in the world have graced the trails and jumps with their skills — but... the warm esteem that it is held in by bikers from around the UK seems to have been lost on the authority is in control of the lease. I’m sure I’m not the only person to have spotted some sort of social myopia in this decision, whatever authority that controls or owns the land seems to be completely blinkered to the positive effects that these sort of community projects create. And yes, it is a community project. They are a cohesive social group that share the responsibility for the upkeep of the area, they do all the repairs themselves, keep it tidy and are always welcoming to people who wish to join in, as long as they share this responsibility.
Sounds like the very model of a community to me.
On a very cynical note I suspect that the kids (I use this term loosely) are probably having far too much fun for the grownups (used even more loosely) to tolerate. l really-really hope that someone has the good sense to give the Woburn bikers a reprieve, a wealthy benefactor/sponsor can step in, or they can raise the money through donations.
Post your ideas or support here...
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=123766590996067&v=wall
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Recreational areas like this have suffered of late, particularly in England, due either to vandalism, council short sightedness, misuse of these areas by those on motorised vehicles, or landowners being made nervous by the possible Health and Safety ramifications. All issues which are not impossible to overcome given some focus and planning. The Gawton woods downhill project in Tavistock in West Devon, being a shining example.
I’d rather have the ‘Yoofs’ of this world play about on their bikes, learning skills, and keeping fit to boot. Have local councils support these areas, rather than bulldozing and having to find other ways to spend money keeping kids occupied. Or not bothering at all, and wondering why local vandalism and petty crime rates increase.
Even if you don’t use these kinds of areas, please sign the petition, as I think we all agree that energetic outdoor activities are preferable to the other less positive alternatives.
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