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16
May 2023
Council flattens bike track in woods near Harrogate
North Yorkshire Council has flattened an unofficial bike track created by off-road cyclists in woods near Harrogate.
Cyclists have ridden the makeshift route in Oak Beck Park, which runs alongside Oak Beck on land behind Aldi and Pets at Home, for years.
But the council has removed parts of it following complaints about "vandalism and unauthorised structures".
Its actions have led to concerns of heavy-handedness towards young people pursuing their hobby.
Cyclists have used Oak Beck Park for years
Barrie Mason, the council's assistant director for parks and grounds, said:
Mr Mason added excavating large quantities of soil and rock, creating unstable structures and riding bikes over footpaths "is damaging to the local ecosystem and creates hazards and conflict with other park users".
He added:
The council's actions led to comments on social media saying bike trails and jumps had been "completely demolished", ruining a healthy hobby among young people. One said:
Another added:
Oak Beck flows through the woods
Cllr Monika Slater, the Liberal Democrat councillor for Bilton Grange and New Park said "it was a real shame" to lose something that was "used regularly and enjoyed by many young people".
She said she was talking to the council to try to find a solution, adding:
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