A meeting between motorcycle groups and DEFRA minister Trudy Harrison MP has found support for the inclusive use of green roads for all users.
The meeting was organised by the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) and included the aforementioned Trudy Harrison MP, a minister of the Department for Environmental, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Land Access and Recreation Association (LARA), and representatives from the following NMC member groups: Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF), British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF).
The intention of the meeting, from the perspective of the NMC, its member groups, and LARA, was “to seek a positive and more balanced approach to countryside access by all users – including those on motorcycles and other motorised vehicles,” the NMC says.
The NMC reports that Ms. Harrison was generally positive towards the use of green roads by motorised users, including for motorcycles, but also urged that such use should be conducted with responsibility.
Graeme Collins, CEO of the Trail Riders Fellowship said: “The Minister’s knowledge of the issues surrounding the loss of public access to the road network was refreshingly enlightened, as was her inclusive and balanced approach to public access to the countryside for all users.
“The TRF looks forward to working with the minster and DEFRA officials in a number of areas where opportunities exist to improve access for all including motorised users.”
LARA’s Dave Waterman said: “Following an open and constructive discussion with the Minister, we look forward to working with DEFRA in a number of areas where we are confident of being able to make a positive contribution to improving the green roads network for everyone - whatever their chosen means of access.”
NMC Executive Director Craig Carey-Clinch said: “This hugely positive meeting revealed what is possible in terms of creating a better and fairer approach to motorcycling on unsealed roads. We are hugely grateful for Ms Harrison’s interest in the issues and her personal insight and knowledge about motorcycling and the countryside.”
