Reviving Lee Quarry: A Mountain Biking Gem in Rossendale
Mountain biking is an exhilarating way to spend your free time, whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or simply enjoying a social ride with friends. In Rossendale, we are fortunate to have a plethora of trails to explore, but finding the best routes can be challenging if you don’t know where to go. One standout location that offers fantastic mountain biking opportunities is Lee Quarry in Bacup, Rossendale.
A Brief History of Lee Quarry
Lee Quarry was developed several years ago with substantial funding aimed at creating a safe and exciting environment for mountain biking enthusiasts. The vision was to build a trail system that catered to riders of all ages and skill levels, providing a unique space for exploration and racing. Initially, Lee Quarry thrived as a premier destination for mountain biking, attracting riders from near and far.
However, over the years, the trails have fallen into disrepair. Lack of maintenance and funding has led to a deterioration of the once-pristine paths, making them less enjoyable and, in some cases, unsafe to ride. This decline is a significant loss for the community, as Lee Quarry remains one of the few places in the region that offers such diverse and challenging terrain for mountain biking.
The Need for Revival
As mountain biking continues to grow in popularity, along with a general trend towards healthier living and outdoor activities, the need to revive Lee Quarry has become more pressing. Restoring this area would not only bring back a fantastic recreational facility but also boost local tourism and provide a safe, engaging space for riders to enjoy their sport.
A dedicated volunteer group, organised through Facebook, has already taken the initiative to address this issue. They are working tirelessly to garner support, funding, and resources necessary to restore Lee Quarry to its former glory. However, their efforts alone are not enough. They need more volunteers, sponsorships, and donations of materials and tools to make significant progress.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
If you have a passion for mountain biking or simply want to support a worthwhile community project, there are several ways you can get involved in the restoration of Lee Quarry:
- Volunteer Your Time: Join the volunteer group and contribute your time to help with trail maintenance, clearing overgrown paths, and making necessary repairs. Every bit of effort counts and helps move the project forward.
- Offer Expertise: If you have skills in trail building, landscaping, engineering, or project management, your expertise would be invaluable. Sharing your knowledge can help ensure that the restoration work is done efficiently and to a high standard.
- Provide Sponsorship: Financial contributions are crucial for purchasing materials, tools, and signage. Sponsorship from local businesses or individuals can make a significant difference in the progress and sustainability of the project.
- Donate Materials: The group needs materials such as wood, gravel, and tools for trail building and maintenance. Donating these items can help reduce costs and speed up the restoration process.
- Promote the Cause: Spread the word about the project through social media, community groups, and local events. Raising awareness can attract more volunteers and sponsors, helping to build a larger support network.
The Vision for Lee Quarry
The ultimate goal is not just to restore Lee Quarry but to transform it into a comprehensive trail centre. This would include well-marked trails for different skill levels, proper signage, storage facilities, and possibly even a visitor centre. A trail centre would provide a structured and welcoming environment for riders, making Lee Quarry a premier destination for mountain biking once again.
Conclusion
Lee Quarry has the potential to be a shining example of what community effort and passion can achieve. By coming together and dedicating our time, resources, and expertise, we can restore this magnificent area and ensure it remains a vibrant and exciting place for mountain biking for years to come.
Whether you’re an avid mountain biker or simply someone who loves the outdoors, getting involved in the revival of Lee Quarry is a rewarding way to make a positive impact on the Rossendale community!
