Why are you Redlands Trails when we’re not allowed to ride there ?
We formed Redlands Trails as a group to lobby for permission to be able to build in Redlands woods but refused permission by the Forestry Commission as landowner has specified that no recreation may take place in the woods. As a result of this the Forestry Commission made available the land near Coldharbour for us to build on where Summer Lightning now is and we never got round to changing the name.
A quick run down of the progression Redlands Trails.
Spring 02
Opened discussions with Forestry Commission about gaining to permission to build recognised trails on their land in Redlands Wood
Summer 02
The first breakthrough – Forestry Commission gave agreement to a section of land adjacent to Wolvens Lane. Redlands Trails formed, and building of Summer Lightning began.
October 02
The first public monthly Building Day was held, with a well attended ‘double-header’ of Saturday and Sunday building.
January 03
Redlands Trails officially constituted, bank account opened, and committee drawn up – Bec (Chairperson), Dan (Secretary), Jon, Ben, Henry
March 03
Received first funding – £300 from Mole Valley District Council, to pay for tools
November 03
Received ~£3000 Awards For All lottery funding – for more tools and building day costs, building website, and other publicity costs
December 03
Launched membership scheme, with discounts in local bike shops
February 04
Began discussions with Surrey Hills AONB regarding possibility of extending building work to create a network across the area
May 04
Recruited more people to join meetings and help out – Dave, Gavin, Mark, Mike, Simon
