Plea to stay away for bikers causing chaos in Wigan woodland

Complaints have been made about the two-wheeled vehicles being ridden in woodland at Billinge Plantation.

There are concerns about the damage they could cause to the “sensitive woodland ecoland” so riders are being reminded to stay away.

People walking in the woods have also described “near misses” with the fast-moving mountain bikes and motorbikes, along with difficulties maintaining social distancing.

One person wrote on social media: “Anyone feel like they’re risking life and limb just taking a walk through Billinge Wood because of the idiots who ride around it on mountain bikes like it is some kind of stunt track? They have no considerations for anyone else.

“My dog was almost hit by one of them the other day and my daughter and her three-year-old were almost taken out by another group today.

“They’re a total nuisance and don’t get me started on the damage they do and the litter they leave behind.”

The site is managed by the Woodland Trust, which is going to put up signs to remind people that bikes and motorcycles should not be used there.

A Woodland Trust spokesman said: “We have had complaints regarding mountain bikers and motorbikes using Billinge Plantation. There are footpaths in the wood but mountain bikes and motorbikes are not allowed there due to potential damage to the sensitive woodland ecosystem.

“We understand that with the ongoing Covid-19 situation and good weather people are inspired to get out for exercise and it’s great that they want to enjoy our woodlands, but we do ask they are sympathetic to what are delicate natural environments.

“We will be putting more signage up at the site to highlight what is acceptable there. When visiting Billinge or indeed any of our sites we do ask people to follow current Government guidelines and respect social distancing advice.”

He added: “If people do have any concerns about anti-social behaviour, in particular if they see motorbikes at the wood, we would urge them to call the police and report it.”

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