Best Example for Improving Greenspace and Green Infrastructure

Glentress Masterplan – a comprehensive initiative fostering community engagement and sustainable tourism while enhancing greenspace infrastructure.

Comment from Judges: “This award recognises the substantial work in Glentress over many years and the work with community and business stakeholders to give long term social and economic benefits. We see here a great demonstration on how a successful master planning approach, around a sporting event, opens up dedicated  infrastructure, enterprise and recreation activity to a wider audience.”

Pictured: Fiona Murray, Forestry & Land Scotland receiving their ORN Success Award from Helen Lawless, Mountaineering Ireland.

Glentress Masterplan Summary:

The Glentress Masterplan aims to enhance the visitor experience at one of Scotland’s top mountain biking locations, while hosting the UCI Cycling World Championships 2023 and fostering tourism in the Tweed Valley. The plan includes improvements to infrastructure, greenspace, and multi-user trails, with a focus on accessibility and safety.

Background:
Glentress, Scotland’s most famous mountain biking site for over 20 years, had limited offerings for non-mountain bikers until the 2016 masterplan by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS). This plan, adopted by the Scottish Borders Council, supports development in the Tweed Valley. Key projects include Forest Holidays eco-cabins and trail improvements, which were part of Scotland’s bid to host the UCI Cycling World Championships.

Challenges:
FLS faced tight deadlines due to the UCI event, the completion of Forest Holidays cabins, live operational businesses, and planned events. Another challenge was ensuring efficient segregation of user groups on the site to minimize conflict. The relocation of public car parks was also planned for improved access.

Solution:
To address these challenges, FLS restructured its board and governance, hired a dedicated team, and streamlined procurement. They introduced flex MSE bags for sustainable trail improvements. During the UCI event, FLS launched a public-facing marquee to promote the project and gather feedback. The installation of ANPR technology improved data collection on visitors and parking, while also supporting accessibility for Blue Badge users.

Outcomes and Benefits:

• The new multi-use trails are integrated with existing mountain biking paths, offering a seamless experience for visitors.
• The improved access makes the site more accessible, including to visitors using tri-shaw bikes.
• Non-car use was boosted with better bus connections and improved links to the NCN1 Tweed Valley Railway Path.
• ANPR has shown a 20-30% increase in car visits from September 2023 to January 2024 and helped track Blue Badge users, offering them free parking without visiting the pay machine.
• The Forest Holidays cabins will open in November 2024, supported by improved trails and facilities.

This masterplan has successfully enhanced the visitor experience, boosted tourism, and ensured the long-term sustainability of Glentress.