Suspend cliff path cycle trial until ecological and safety studies have been conducted

I am a regular evening walker on the cliffs between Les Tielles, Torteval and Mount Herault. I walk this route as do many of my family. We have done so for over 30 years.

This trial poses significant risks to the fragile ecosystems, protected wildlife, and the safety and accessibility of the paths for other users.

The cliffs of Guernsey are of exceptional ecological and of special significance and have been rightly protected for decades. These paths are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including species of great importance such as barn owls, short-eared owls, bats, hedgehogs, and the black-backed ant, which I believe is rare or even extinct elsewhere in the UK. Allowing mountain bikes on these paths, especially at night, introduces disturbances to these species, many of which are nocturnal and rely on these habitats for survival. Increased human activity, particularly from mountain bikes, will disrupt feeding, breeding, and nesting behaviours, potentially threatening the survival of already vulnerable populations.

The physical impact on the cliff path itself is also concerning. The paths are generally very narrow and precarious, and mountain biking during the wetter winter months will most definitely lead to significant erosion and surface damage. Without prior ecological studies to establish a baseline for natural erosion, and from walkers (done now and again in April without any bikes) there is no way to accurately assess the potential harm this trial will cause. I’m concerned this decision has been rushed through partly to avoid such data. The damage from tyre tracks, compaction of soil, and displacement of vegetation could be irreversible, further endangering the delicate balance of these protected ecosystems. In my opinion the ACLMS and E&I decision to allow mountain bikes on these paths without proper ecological studies is foolish and reckless. Clearly none of the people in favour of this decision have walked these cliffs, especially at night, and met mountain bikers travelling at speed which is intimidating, terrifying and dangerous, despite the fact I was in the right and they had absolutely no business to be there!

Have any of these rogue cyclists ever been fined the £100 fine?

Moreover, the safety and enjoyment of pedestrians and dog walkers must be considered. Many individuals use these paths after dusk for leisure and exercise, and the introduction of mountain bikes poses a clear risk of accidents, particularly in low-light conditions, and much of this path is extremely narrow and certainly doesn’t allow for a pedestrian with dogs to pass a bike safely. I can confirm this as I have had the misfortune of running into several rogue mountain bikers over the last few years, all who have shown absolutely no respect for the 1975 ordinance sign which clearly states cyclists are prohibited. I have even confronted them about this, as have others, and they either said ‘sorry, they didn’t know’ or put their heads down and whizz past or get angry and go back the other way. I’ve recognised them time and time again. They know they weren’t supposed to be there but have chosen to ignore the rules. How can any of them be trusted to keep to any rules? I’m disappointed that these authorities have chosen to bow to pressure rather than actually fine them.

Over the last few years it seems obvious, rogue bikes have at times already led to treacherous conditions on these paths during the winter months. The potential damage caused by bikes this winter could make the paths hazardous for walkers. Surely if these authorities feel there needs to be a compromise then a day or one weekend a year would be sufficient for a GMBA bike event on the cliffs. I would support a one-off event and I believe such an event already takes place at the reservoir? This would give the cliffs ample time to recover from the impact of one or two days with no need for repairs. It will lessen any impact on nature or other users.

I am also very concerned that allowing the GMBA having anything to do with repairing the damage they cause (as if the fact they are saying they will repair, is not admission enough, that they will in fact cause damage). I’m worried tons of gravel or other man-made materials (whatever suits them best) will be put on the paths, changing the look of the natural rock, rock gravel and ground path surface’s natural look forever. I fear they will, within just a few years, turn these paths into a purpose-built ‘mountain bike trail’ I sincerely hope I am wrong.

The prohibition of bikes on these cliff paths since 1975 reflects the long-standing recognition of the need to protect these areas. Reversing this policy, even temporarily, without thorough ecological assessments and risk analysis undermines the commitment to preserving Guernsey’s natural heritage.

I fully support the justified concerns of La Societe Guernesiaise and the National Trust who have already expressed similar apprehensions regarding the impact this trial could have on Guernsey’s unique flora, fauna, and ecosystems. These organisations’ expertise and dedication to the conservation of Guernsey’s natural environment further underscore the urgency of reconsidering this decision. I feel they should have been consulted and fully informed of the suggestion of GMBA’s latest attempts. It certainly appears certain organisations were purposely left out to ensure the GMBA got their way.

The cliffs provide an abundance of wildlife from dusk, one can enjoy witnessing many bats, owls and other small mammals on foot and there is no benefit to anyone else to allow bikes. Recreation is not the same as conservation.

Only a few weeks ago – late October/early November, on a clear, calm evening between 7-8pm, I was fortunate to witness three small owls, most likely short-eared, on the wire fence, up the steps towards Mount Herault. As I had dogs with me and to not disturb the owls, I quickly turned and retreated back down the steps. One can be sure, bike activity at night will decrease these birds’ hunting ability and as shown in other studies elsewhere in the world regarding the detrimental effects on wildlife from mountain biking at night, will drive species away from the area completely.

On occasions where I’ve worn a head torch walking on these cliffs, I’ve been aware that birds become startled and take flight from the hedgerows and undergrowth, often taking off out to sea, which has made me feel bad as I’m not sure what happens to them.

I now walk without using light wherever possible and let my eyes adjust. Not only does this make it so much easier to see the bats and owls, it also prevents unnecessarily disturbing birds during their roosting time. This sadly will not be the case with the bright and often multi-coloured lights worn by cyclists who will be thundering along at speed.

I urge you to reconsider this decision and prioritise the protection of these fragile ecosystems and the safety of all who use the paths. At a minimum, I recommend a suspension of the trial until next autumn until comprehensive ecological and safety studies have been conducted, providing a clear understanding of the potential impacts and clear data which can then be compared to the impacts the use of bikes have.

Thank you for considering these concerns. I trust that the unique and irreplaceable value of Guernsey’s cliffs will guide your decision.

MRS H EPHGRAVE