· In 2007 the key agencies involved in mountain biking recognised that, whilst there was many success stories, the activity would benefit from a strategic approach to future development.

· Working together, and with an extensive consultation exercise, a national strategic framework for sustainable mountain biking development was devised.

· Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland is the project that will implement the framework.

· The project, which is housed within Scottish Cycling, is coordinated by the Scottish Mountain Bike Development Consortium (SMBDC) whose membership consists of Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, NHS Scotland, Scottish Cycling, CTC, VisitScotland, EventScotland, Cycling Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, HIE, dirtschool, IMBA and a representative from Highland Council. The project is directly funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, sportscotland and CTC.

· The aim of the project is to provide a strategic approach to facility development, co-ordinate activity, ensure best practice is spread and maximise the potential of mountain biking in Scotland.

Framework summary

· The vision of the framework is for Scotland to be a world leader in all aspects of mountain biking, with the implementation of the Framework having a considerable impact on increasing participation, tourism and economic development and sporting development and success.

· Key framework principles include economic and environmental sustainability, equity and social inclusion

· The framework aims to develop participation and performance in mountain biking, specifically through increasing opportunities to be involved within the activity with facilities closer to population bases. Clarifying the recreational and sporting pathways including the coaching and leading structure.

· This framework will include the development of national standards on trail design and grading, accreditation for trail designers, a code of conduct for local initiatives and guidance on liability

· This framework will specifically aim to support local authorities, businesses and land managers through the formation of Development Clusters.

Mountain biking in Scotland

· Scotland is recognised as one of the best destinations in the world for mountain biking

· This is largely due to pockets of excellence, with the presence of world-class facilities and riders, stunning scenery, access legislation and varied terrain

· The framework aims to build upon this success and facilitate the growth of mountain biking opportunities and participation throughout Scotland.

· It is estimated that 1.8m people in Scotland own a mountain bike.*

Opportunities of mountain biking

· Current economic impact of mountain biking to the tourism market is £119m, employment of 3,479 and GVA of £68m.+

· Potential growth for the market over the next 5 years is estimated at £36m increasing the market share to £154m.+

· Improved physical and emotional health of residents in Scotland.

· Increased active travel participation incentive as a means of improving fitness.

· Greater exposure to biodiversity in green and natural environments.

· Personal skill development.

· Greater social integration in the local community

· Appealing to young people, particularly girls and young women, encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

Opportunities of the framework

· Contribute to Single Outcome Agreements (SOAs)

· A healthier population, therefore lower health costs and less absenteeism from workplaces.

· Making the most from the outdoor environment - biking routes made available by the access legislation.

· An increase in use of existing mountain bike facilities, and the development of new ones, particularly by providing facilities closer to where people live.

· Promotion of availability and use of public transport.

· Promotion of social inclusion in mountain biking, regardless of age, gender, disability, ethnicity, sexuality or socio-economic status.

· Promotion of responsible participation to reduce conflicts between different land users.

· Facilitation of partnership working and sharing of good practice.

· Promotion of active travel to improve fitness for mountain biking.

· To lead internationally on the development of this popular sport.