Scottish sport minister Shona Robison has helped launch a new national framework, which is designed to promote the sustainable development of mountain biking in Scotland.

The Scottish Mountain Bike Development Consortium (SMBDC) is behind the framework, which aims to build on the growth of the sport by increasing visitor numbers to the country and boosting participation. According to the UK Tourism Survey, a total of 108,000 trips to Scotland in 2006 was due to mountain biking; a figure which increased to 197,000 for 2007.

A three-year programme to push the framework forward is being funded by a number of SMBDC members, including Scottish Enterprise, the Cyclists Touring Club, Forestry Commission Scotland, sportscotland and Scottish Natural Heritage. Robison said: "This framework is an excellent example of public sector agencies working together with private and voluntary organisations to develop an activity in which Scotland is regarded as a world leader.

"Mountain biking already contributes a vast amount to Scotland offering opportunities for participation in sport, encouraging visitors to rural areas, attracting world class events and producing talented athletes." Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Cycling, International Mountain Biking Association UK and VisitScotland also comprise SMBDC.

Image: (From left) Scottish sport minister Shona Robison, community police officer Craig Borthwick, school pupil Louise McGeachy and Downhill World Champion Steve Peat