AN ATTEMPT is to be made in Tynwald tomorrow to introduce new legislation to dramatically restrict the number of tracks and pathways which can be used by bikes and 4x4s all over the Isle of Man.

Douglas North MHK Bill Henderson - who has regularly campaigned against vehicles causing damage on the mountains in recent years - has tabled a resolution suggesting that government tackles the issue with tough new regulations.

He believes that the number of tracks and pathways should be reduced and that unnecessary damage is being caused to heather moors, peat and blanket bogs which he says are of European significance.

Mr Henderson said that the Isle of Man’s natural heritage is “a jewel in the Island’s crown” and that there are areas of the Island’s semi-natural habitat which are already designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs).

His motion to Tynwald proposes:  “Tynwald is of the opinion that the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture should prepare legislation to control the use of motorised vehicles in hill lands which is destroying the countryside, semi natural environment and footpaths, rights of ways and greenways by way of environmental vandalism and other mindless acts.”