
Viewpoint on Moncreiffe Hill (photo: Woodland Trust)
The Woodland Trust Scotland has received a number of complaints about people riding off-road motor bikes through Moncreiffe Hill Wood without permission.
Tyre tracks leading over Moredun Top, one of two Bronze Age hill forts in the wood, have also been reported.
Jill Aitken, site manager for Moncreiffe Hill said: “We’ve had reports from walkers that the dirt bikes have passed them at high speed, giving them a big fright.
“All of our woods are open to the public and we welcome walkers, cyclists and horse-riders. However, we can’t allow access to motor bikes because they cause damage to the paths, and the noise spoils other people’s enjoyment of the wood.
“Riding them on Moredun Top is a big concern because it is likely to cause irreversible damage to this unique ancient monument.
“We have put up signs to inform people that motor bikes are not allowed and we are working with the police to try and resolve the issue, but if this irresponsible activity continues it’s just a matter of time before there’s an accident.”
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code allows responsible access to the majority of Scotland’s woodland. Motorised vehicles are not covered by this code unless they are used for disabled access.
Members of the public can report any suspicious activity at Moncreiffe Hill Wood to Police Scotland by calling 101.