Bikes plan for old colliery site

A former mining site near Mansfield could be turned into a national venue for motocross to help tackle the problem of illegal off-road bikers.

A report suggests more than £6m could be generated if the project at the old Rufford Colliery goes ahead.

Known as The Desert, the site is used illegally by up to 400 bikers at weekends. But it is a nuisance for the landowners, residents and the police.

The challenging terrain attracts riders from all over the country.

A report has been drawn-up which claims the site has great potential to become an authorised national centre for off-road driving.

Three tracks could be created - one for motorbikes, another for quad-bikes and mini-motos and a third for 4x4 vehicles.

The report by the Midlands-based Auto Cycle Union, said the site could even be used for national and international championship events.