How we support key destinations

The approach is different dependent on the level of regional support which is available in each destination.

DMBinS is able to support destinations when mountain biking is prioritised within plans of the Local Authority, destination management organisations, enterprise agencies, local businesses, and community organisations.

The support we can then offer is dependent on local funding opportunities. The ideal model is for a full-time member of staff with a development and marketing budget. DMBinS have evidence that this model works through the work of regional co-ordinators in Tweed Valley, Aberdeenshire, and in key destinations in the Highlands.

The development budget will deliver programmes such as the Bike Storage Scheme, business workshops, event development support and link with our work to develop both purpose-built trails and community-led trail building, largely through Trails Associations, in our key destinations.

The marketing budget will depend on criteria within the funding DMBinS receives, for example, the economic development agencies (Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, and South of Scotland Enterprise) will only fund marketing of the project itself, see this example from Aberdeenshire. However, if funding is available then DMBinS is adept at delivering consumer-facing videos that promote the destination to riders, see this example of a destination showcase from PinkBike.

Over the next few months we will be developing detailed breakdowns of how we support all of our key destinations and give an insight into the exciting opportunities this bring for Scottish mountain biking.