SAFETY AND ACCESS
Trail building and volunteering
Support authorised maintenance without creating unsafe features, drainage damage or land-access problems.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Join an authorised day
Permission, insurance and ecological checks matter.
- Register with the organiser and follow its tool, clothing and safeguarding requirements.
- Attend the briefing and work only in the assigned area.
- Report hazards rather than making independent alterations.
Why unofficial work harms
A well-intended change can redirect water or increase consequence.
- Do not cut new lines, enlarge jumps or remove technical features.
- Never interfere with culverts, drains, boundaries or forestry infrastructure.
- Unapproved building can damage habitats and jeopardise continued access.
Contribute beyond digging
Trail groups need varied skills.
- Help with fundraising, administration, communications and condition reports.
- Donate through official channels and support local businesses.
- Share closure messages without publicising sensitive unofficial trails.
Useful official guidance
Rules, conditions and services change. Use these sources and the relevant venue’s current information before relying on a plan.
Spot something that needs updating? Tell us about a correction.