A crackdown has been launched at Deeside estate amid fears rogue bikers are putting public safety at risk.
Various groups, including the Bon Accord Motorcycle Club, have permission to use Kincardine Estate at Kincardine O’Neil.
The sprawling grounds surrounding the castle include motorbike trails, walking routes, cycle paths, deer stalkers and 4×4 off-road driving.
But recently a group of bikers have been using the land without permission, sparking concerns people could be injured.
The practice has also caused “excessive” ground damage, threatening to spoil the trails used by other groups.
Now the estate management have paired up with police in an effort to clamp down on the problem.
Leanne Imlach, a land agent for estate manager Strutt and Parker, said: “The forest owners welcome responsible use of the woodland and have long-standing agreements with many groups. They believe it offers important amenity use to the local community and are delighted that people enjoy using it. They hope they will continue to do so for many years to come.
“However, more recently we have had an increasing number of issues with illegal motorbike access. This has become a health and safety issue as it challenges our ability to ensure the safety of all those using the site.
“It is also damaging the ground and contravenes rights of responsible public access to the countryside, as outlined in The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and The Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The forest’s long standing amenity use is being threatened by the actions of a few irresponsible bikers.
“We have discussed the issue with Police Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, Bon Accord Motorcycle Club and Aberdeenshire Council. The police will increase informal patrols of the area.”
Anyone with information on illegal biking should contact police on 101.
