THE BLACK HILLS PROJECT

The Black Hills Project is a voluntary organisation based in the South Eastern area of Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

It was formed in 2020 by a collective of mountain bikers with a vision to create and enhance facilities available to the local riding community. 

The aim of the project is to deliver new off road cycling infrastructure to the area, help refurbish existing facilities and work towards improvements in the off road cycling trails that criss cross the area. We believe that the trail network found in the South East should feel as natural as possible and fit in with the surrounding area. To supplement the network we currently enjoy', the project will work towards the creation of a coherent trail network by identify missing segments and getting these designated as true multi user trails.

To compliment our projects we aim to develop new cycle training opportunities for all ages and abilities. We believe that cycling should be accessible to all and also provide a fun leisure opportunity that can be enjoyed individually or as part of a group.

The project holds a respect as a core value, this encompasses personal interactions and also the impact we have on the natural world. We believe that as cyclists we should integrate with other user groups who share the same outdoor space, and observe the countryside code. Litter is a big problem in our outdoor spaces, we hope to encourage people to leave no trace when they go out for a ride; this can be done by simply taking your empty packaging home. As part of our work we hold regular litter picking sessions and actively try to encourage everyone to respect the environment we all enjoy.

We have a good working relationship with Wakefield Council and it’s officers, this is being used to bring new projects to life and continue to develop our existing project within Fitzwilliam Country Park. In 2020 we established a community cycling club (group) as part of Cycling UK’s community cycling program. Over the coming months we hope to grow this new club in numbers and further develop our links with Cycling UK. We hope this will form a vibrant cycling community in the South East area that is inclusive, progressive and respectful. Contact us to learn more and get involved.