On 29 October 2009, Bristol's only purpose-built downhill mountain biking venue, Still Woods, a.k.a the Plantation, Long Ashton, was closed to mountain bikers by the and owner, Bristol University.

The first anyone knew about the closure was when the notices went up. Even the University Mountain Bike Club hadn't been informed or consulted.

The future of the site is currently uncertain, but from deliveries of machinery like bulldozers and mini-diggers it looks like the University are gearing up to remove the trails and features.

The University have indicated that they would be prepared to let use of the site continue if arrangements with the mountain bikers can be formalised. They are concerned that they're going to be held liable for injuries that happen at the site, that mountain bikers are endangering other users where trails cross footpaths, and that the site is deteriorating due to erosion, litter and destruction of trees.

What can you do to get involved?

• Join our Facebook group.
• Sign this e-petition against the closure.
  
• If you know anyone who has successfully secured the future of a DH venue by working with land managers, get in touch via bristoltrailsgroup@gmail.com
• If you have any contacts in the media, particularly the general media, draw their attention to this story.
• Subscribe to this blog or add it to your RSS feeds for updates.