The National Trust has launched a new network of off-road cycle trails at its Lanhydrock Estate which are expected to attract thousands of new visitors to the area.  The development will include 10km of blue and green cross country trails, a cycle hire business, a café, a cycle skills area and a kids track for young children learning to cycle. There will also be a play area.

The project has not been without controversy however. The ‘Save Lanhydrock’ campaign deemed the project a potential blight on the environment saying it would destroy trees and would create a negative impact with the increase of visitor numbers and associated traffic.

Thankfully the campaign was unsuccessful and the trails have now been opened. The initiative is part of the 1 South West Cycling Project.

Speaking at the launch of the trails, Mark Harold, the National Trust’s regional director, said: “Our outdoor spaces are among our greatest natural treasures, and we want to play our part in reconnecting people with them.

“Well-managed off-road cycling facilities encourage people to enjoy the unique delights of spending time outdoors in remarkable landscapes.”

The development of the scheme has relied heavily on local support which clearly shows the commitment of the local community to get people outdoors and on their bikes. Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Club, Callestick Farm Cornish Dairy Ice Cream and Clive Mitchell Cycles are sponsoring maintenance of the cycle trails for the next five years.