CYCLISTS, residents and visitors to Whinlatter Forest Park are being encouraged to have their say about plans to develop a new network of mountain bike trails.

A public meeting at Rawnsley Hall, Keswick, will take place on May 20, 7.30pm, where a draft map of the proposed cycle routes for the park will be on display and representatives of the Forestry Commission will be on hand.

The aim is to provide mountain bikers of all abilities with a network of top-rate trails and encourage them away from more sensitive areas of the Lake District.

The meeting follows a two-month feasibility study to look into the ways Whinlatter can safely accommodate mountain bikers and other recreational visitors.

Following the May 20 event, people will then have 28 days to formally put their views to the Forestry Commission.

The final decision on the new cycle trails will be announced at the end of June.

May 13, 2003 08:30