Closure of Dirt Jumps in Rushmere Country Park's Downhill Zone

Vital woodland management work at Rushmere Country Park has necessitated the removal of the bike jumps within the Downhill Zone. 

Credit: Rushmere Dirt Jumps

Statement from Rushmere Country Park: 

In reviewing all activities and trails at Rushmere Country Park, our initial assessment has identified that some elements of the cycling Downhill Zone, in particular the more extreme jumps, do not meet the requirements needed to justify their restoration. The jump elements, significantly increase the risk factors for the Country Park and set this activity at a level that causes concern. 

When looking at all our activities in the park we need to be certain that the risk factors are at a manageable level, as well as ensuring that the activity can be managed with the resources that we have at our disposal. We have to seriously consider issues around safety and all activities at Rushmere need to be at a level that is reasonable in a Country Park setting with robust processes to mitigate risks.

We will be redeveloping the Downhill Zone once the tree management work has been completed, and we will consult with cycling professionals for proposals on how we can redevelop cycling within the Downhill Zone area, focusing on lower risks and emphasising skill building whilst still providing riders with a challenge and maintaining fun. During this process there will be opportunity for our volunteer community both existing and new to be involved.

We understand the strong feeling that our decision has evoked and we are totally sympathetic to the cycling community who use our facilities, especially the volunteers who have given their time as Trust Volunteers who have helped us provide safe facilities for the public . We believe that the review of cycling in Rushmere Country Park will be a positive change, that offers more opportunities for exercise, skill building and fun for the current and future bike riders visiting the park.