THE decision to reject plans for a ‘Boris- Bikes’-style cycle hire scheme for the New Forest would appear to underscore the mistrust that now exists between the form of transport and residents in the National Park.

This is a pity, especially when the scheme was targeted towards visitors and not the racing enthusiasts who are surely the focus of complaints and concerns for residents.

The actions of New Forest National Park to reject the scheme, even though it comes with a sizeable amount of Government funding to support it, would seem to be striking out at the innocent when those who are perceived to be guilty of bringing the pastime into disrepute cannot be reached.

Again this is a pity, and shows the authority in a poor light.

At the heart of the issue are two important platforms – the balance to be achieved between protecting the Forest and maintining it as an attraction for visitors, and the equally difficult balancing act of promoting cycling as a healthy way to enjoy nature’s wonders.

It is a strange world indeed where green and environmentally friendly cycles are subject to restrictions, while motor vehicles are allowed to flow freely.