Overview
The 1SW project has evolved from a report commissioned in 2006 looking at the opportunities for off-road cycling in the south west of England. This report concluded that the area has great potential as a world-class off-road cycling destination
The south west is the most visited region in England and demand for off-road cycling in the south west outstrips the supply of managed facilities to enable this activity. At present a lack of co-ordination of the off-road cycling product in the south west is hampering development and marketing of the region. 1SW strives to work with everyone to achieve this co-ordination.
The 1SW project is funded by Sport England's Community Investment Fund and aims to increase the total number of active off-road cycling visits to the area by over 200 000 over the next 4 years.
The map shows the south west region that the project covers. This is the boundary used by the South West Regional Development Agency.
Why is the project called 1SW?
Because the project is all about developing one cohesive quality off-road cycling region, working with anyone and everyone. Organisations and individuals that are not directly represented on the project should not feel excluded or that they sit outside of the project. For example Forestry Commission is one of the lead partners, but we will work with any landowner to assist in developing and promoting off-road cycling facilities on their site if they are interested in providing a quality product that benefits the region.
Commercial gain is not the aim of the project; we are funded by Sport England to increase participation by working with others. We will treat all enquiries on a fair and unbiased basis and will encourage others to communicate and work together where possible. A cohesive south west off-road cycling product will benefit industry, residents and tourists. A fragmented product will limit the ability of the south west to benefit from off-road cycling.
A true partnership
The project is managed by an executive board made up of representatives from all of the project partner organisations. The executive board meets approximately four times a year, and has regular contact with the project officer between meetings. The executive board gives direction and support to the work of the project officer.
The project is not just about providing more mountain bike trails in the south west for existing keen cyclists to use, it's about getting more people into off-road cycling at all levels and retaining their interest whilst providing benefits to everyone involved. The diverse range of organisations on the executive board reflects this broad vision, from tourism interests to health and fitness. Through such a wide partnership we can hopefully deliver an off-road cycling region that is relevant to, and enjoyed by as many people and groups as possible.
Project Manager Paul Hawkins is funded by Sport England and hosted by Forestry Commission. Paul is based with Forestry Commission at Peninsula, Exeter and also has a base in Devon County Hall with the Cycle Exeter team. Before starting this role Paul has been involved in delivering outdoor activities, managing outdoor recreation and working in agriculture.
For more information on the project partners please click on the links below:
