The Grove woodland on the outskirts of Felixstowe has been used to create “unauthorised bike trails” where people have created jumps and berms on the woodland floor.
A spokesperson from East Suffolk Council said: “Disturbing the woodland could cause a potential risk to safety and may breach legislation for protected species, and we are appealing to mountain bike enthusiasts to stick to designated routes and tracks.”
In the woodland a sign was attached to a tree by the council, which warned mountain bikers that they are not permitted to ride through the wood and there is a public footpath where they can push their bicycles.
The sign also said in bold red writing “Digging up the woodland floor is forbidden, and you may face prosecution.”
It then quoted the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 which explained that it is illegal to uproot any wild plants without consent, regardless of if they are protected or not.
The spokesperson also said: “We understand the appeal of off-road riding and we encourage cycling for its many health and environmental benefits. However, the safety of other visitors and protecting the environment of the woods is also extremely important.
“We want everyone to be able to visit and enjoy East Suffolk’s publicly accessible woodlands and we actively manage areas including The Grove to enhance access and biodiversity.”