Whippendell Wood is set to become a key destination for mountain biking, as Watford Borough Council partners with Bike Park Chilterns CIC to create a semi-urban mountain bike trail...
This exciting project will cater to riders of all levels, featuring purpose-built elements such as flowing berms, progressive jumps, and technical descents. The project is partially funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)-backed Watford Neighbourhood Grant, with additional support from West Herts Golf Club, which has returned a section of leased land to make the trail area possible.
Through a Community Use Agreement (CUA) with Bike Park Chilterns CIC, the facility will offer a range of opportunities, including free group coaching sessions and paid private coaching, making it a hub for both recreation and skill development. With a mix of terrain, it's set to offer an exhilarating experience for riders from beginners to our next Olympians.
The facility will replace previously unauthorised bike trails that were removed to protect the woodland, providing a safe and sustainable area for mountain biking while preserving the natural habitat. The bike trail aims to balance recreation with conservation, ensuring Whippendell Wood – a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - remains an ecological treasure for generations to come.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “With the ever-increasing popularity of mountain biking, this new trail area will contribute to the vibrant outdoor recreation scene in Watford such as Oxhey Activity Park. The addition of purpose-built trails and jumps will provide a unique and challenging experience for riders, where they can also enjoy the natural surroundings of Whippendell Wood.
“The wood is a real gem which is enjoyed by thousands of people each year, and to make it a healthy woodland, it needs to be managed sensitively to ensure it can be enjoyed by future generations and stay as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The work with Bike Park Chilterns to relocate the mountain biking tracks from the old site of protected woodland to the new area will help us to keep the woods healthy for many more years, as well as providing some great new biking facilities.”
Councillor Tim Williams, Portfolio Holder for Streets and Parks, said: “This collaborative effort reflects the shared vision of preserving the natural beauty of Whippendell Wood, while embracing new opportunities for outdoor activities. By providing a dedicated space for mountain biking enthusiasts, it will promote healthy and active lifestyles.”
John Holbrook, Director at Bike Park Chilterns CIC, said: “It’s great that we can assist with one of the UK’s first council-led semi-urban mountain bike trail areas. This project highlights what can be achieved through collaboration and presents a great opportunity for Watford to take a leading role in outdoor recreation.
“Many residents will be able to cycle to the trail, and it will significantly benefit health, wellbeing, and the local outdoor community, while offering inclusive access through funded group coaching and private tuition.”
Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with the trail set to open during autumn 2025.
Photos by N.Hawkins
