Beauty spot falls victim to quad and scrambler bike activity

A north Cavan beauty spot is being destroyed by acts of vandalism which have left volunteers preserving the area devastated, according to a local TD.

Scramblers and quad bikes are destroying the lands of the Loughanleagh amenity on the Kingscourt- Bailieborough border.

“Today I met with concerned and upset volunteers from the Loughanleagh & Muff Heritage Trust to see first-hand the damage that has been inflicted on this beautiful amenity which has been a lifeline for many during these difficult times and Covid-19," said Deputy Niamh Smyth. "The abuse by scramblers and quads at Loughanleagh needs to stop and stop now."

The Fianna Fáíl deputy noted that local volunteers have spent much time and money in preserving the "wonderful amenity" which covers an area of approximately 3 kilometres.

"During Covid-19, like many beauty spots it was a valuable outlet to have. It rises to 1119 ft above sea level and gives those who visit spectacular panoramic views of up to 14 surrounding counties,” she said.

Deputy Smyth suspects that the damage is being caused by a number of people.

“I would have to assume from what I witnessed today that these are organised meets where quads and scramblers bikes are meeting up, engaging in this activity and while doing so ruining parts of the walking trail.

"Signage which was erected on fences to deter this sort of activity has been knocked and driven across by the scramblers. It’s very disheartening for the volunteers who are trying to maximise the site's potential only to find their good work being ruined.

Not only this but with insurance costs being so high on certain trails, this activity is causing further anxiety for the group who want to see this amenity open and utilised in a safe manner. These incidents have left many of the trails uneven and muddy. The trails were made for pedestrians, not quad bikes and a lot of the surrounding land is being devastated by this activity.”

Deputy Smyth is appealing to the community to notify the gardaí if they witnes such activities.

“Coillte who part own the site have been notified and I would appeal to the public to get in contact with the Gardaí if they witness this sort of activity at Loughanleagh. This type of behaviour cannot be tolerated and it’s simply unacceptable.”