IT should be easier to see the wood for the trees in Slaley Forest now that brand new signs have gone up, which aims to keep the peace between different user groups.

The Forestry Commission, working in collaboration with Northumbria Police, Northumberland County Council, Green Lane Association, Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship and the local community, has improved access information so that everyone can enjoy the forest safely.

Slaley forest welcomes a variety of users, from walkers, cyclists and horse riders to trail bikers and 4x4 drivers.

The new signage clearly explains which routes through the forest are legally open to all traffic.

Alex MacLennan, recreation and public affairs manager for the Forestry Commission for the North-East said: “Slaley is a popular location for trail bike riders and 4x4 drivers.

“Part of managing this site with multiple users is to ensure that the public byways are clearly marked so everyone can maximise their enjoyment of this special forest, whilst at the same time staying on the right side of the law.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Pam Bridges said: “Northumbria Police is delighted to support this collaborative initiative. Police will continue to work with local agencies and individuals to ensure this area is available for visitors to enjoy.”

A spokesman for Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship, Greg Villalobos, added: “All the riders at Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship are proud to have been part of this initiative. We value the Green Road network in the North-East and understand that Slaley Forest is an important and sensitive part of that.

“We believe that, with a respectful approach, all users can use the byways open to all traffic and that having clear signage, that doesn’t discriminate against any particular user group, helps send out a positive message about where vehicles can and can’t access.”

An equal contributor to the partnership has been the Green Lane Association (GLASS), which promotes the responsible use of public byways.

Darren Clark, Northumberland area representative for GLASS, said: “GLASS is proud to support and work with the Forestry Commission in promoting the responsible use of our public byways. These new signs should make it easier for all users to access the forest legally. We believe everyone has a part to play in preserving this sensitive area of the North-East for all to enjoy.”