Dalby Forest visitor numbers up by 15 per cent (From Gazette & Herald)

Dalby Forest visitor numbers up by 15 per cent

12:29pm Tuesday 8th December 2009 in News By Gazette Reporter

NEW cycle trails and a high-wire course have helped send a North Yorkshire tourist attraction’s visitor numbers soaring.

Figures released by the Forestry Commission have revealed admissions at Dalby Forest rose by 15 per cent in the last year – pushing them through the 400,000 mark for the first time.

The attraction’s managers say the success is down to 55km of new cycling routes and the arrival of the Go-Ape course, as well as a £4.2 million investment in creating an eco-friendly visitor centre, and its popularity has led to the commission launching a new visitor scheme – the first of its kind – in North Yorkshire. The Discovery Pass – backed by veteran botanist and Dalby Forest fan David Bellamy – will guarantee free parking all year round at the forest for a flat fee of £42, along with discounts on cycle hire, Christmas trees, the forest café and Go-Ape, with proceeds being ploughed back into the woodland.

“The profile of the forest has been transformed in the past decade and that’s reflected in the growth of visitors, which is great news for the whole area,” said visitor centre manager Tanya Rex.

“The Discovery Pass is a new venture for the Forestry Commission, which has been around for 90 years. It will open the door to more trippers while offering those already using the woodland an even better deal.”