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The Republic of Ireland has taken a significant step toward developing a gravel cycling scene following a new agreement between Cycling Ireland and Coillte, the national forestry agency. This memorandum of understanding marks a breakthrough for gravel enthusiasts in the Republic, where the sport’s growth has been hindered by restrictions on cycling in Coillte-controlled lands, despite the abundance of potential gravel routes. The agreement paves the way for a two-year pilot program featuring a series of gravel events, testing a sustainable model for future activities.
Background: A Rising Global Trend Stalled in the Republic
Gravel cycling has experienced exponential growth globally, with riders drawn to its blend of road and off-road adventure. In Ireland, Northern Ireland has seen a thriving gravel scene emerge, but the Republic has lagged behind due to Coillte’s near-blanket ban on cycling in its forests. This restriction has limited access to gravel paths and trails, stifling the sport’s development despite the country’s ideal terrain for such events.
The New Agreement: A Pilot Program for Gravel Events
The memorandum of understanding between Cycling Ireland and Coillte introduces a pilot program aimed at fostering gravel cycling in the Republic. Key elements of the agreement include:
- Gravel Cycling Pilot: A series of gravel events will be organized over the next two years to test the viability of a sustainable model for future events.
- Licensing System: Event organizers will be granted five-day licenses to set up, run, and dismantle events on Coillte-managed lands.
- Safety Considerations: Coillte’s forest roads are primarily used for forestry operations, including heavy machinery and timber transport, so safety will be a top priority during the pilot.
- Sanctioning and Promotion: All events must be sanctioned by Cycling Ireland and organized by approved promoters to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
This pilot program represents a significant shift, as it opens up Coillte lands to gravel cycling for the first time, allowing riders to explore the Republic’s vast network of forest roads and trails.
MTB Trails Initiative: Expanding Access for Clubs
In addition to the gravel pilot, the agreement includes a new initiative to develop and maintain mountain bike (MTB) trails on Coillte lands. This program will allow a limited number of Cycling Ireland-affiliated clubs to create local MTB trail networks. Key features of the initiative include:
- Member Access: Trails will be accessible exclusively to Cycling Ireland members, who will be covered under the organization’s insurance.
- Exclusion of Non-Members: Non-members will not be permitted to use these trails and will not be insured.
- Club Development: The initiative aims to support clubs in building sustainable trail networks that enhance local cycling opportunities.
This MTB trails program complements the gravel pilot, providing additional off-road cycling opportunities for club members while ensuring safety and sustainability.
What This Means for the Future
The agreement between Cycling Ireland and Coillte is a major step forward for gravel cycling in the Republic, addressing long-standing barriers to access and opening up new possibilities for riders. The two-year pilot program will test the feasibility of gravel events in Coillte forests, with the potential to establish a sustainable model for future growth.
For the gravel community, this development is a welcome sign of progress after years of frustration. It also aligns with the global surge in gravel cycling, offering riders in the Republic the chance to explore diverse terrains and participate in organized events. The MTB trails initiative further supports the off-road cycling community, providing clubs with the tools to develop and maintain local trails.
Cycling Ireland has indicated that more details about the gravel pilot will be released in the coming weeks, giving riders and organizers a clearer picture of what to expect. While challenges remain—particularly in balancing cycling with Coillte’s primary forestry operations—this agreement represents a promising foundation for the future of gravel cycling in the Republic of Ireland.
Conclusion
The memorandum of understanding between Cycling Ireland and Coillte is a breakthrough for gravel cycling in the Republic, offering hope for a thriving scene that has long been stymied by access restrictions. By piloting gravel events and supporting MTB trail development, the agreement lays the groundwork for sustainable growth in off-road cycling. As the pilot program unfolds over the next two years, it will be crucial to assess its success and build on this progress to ensure gravel cycling can flourish in Ireland’s diverse and picturesque landscapes.
