Environmental impact trumps need
An area which has been popular for kids learning to ride their motorbikes will be closed to the public from today.
Cross Vein Mine in Foxdale, commonly known as 'Snuff the Wind', was seen as the last 'grass roots' spot in the Isle of Man.
The decision has caused much anger and dismay among the Island's motorcycling community.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says the area is being shut because research has shown contaminated material which ends up in Peel marina often originates from the mine, making its way down into the river system after being disturbed.
Pete Christian of Isle of Man Friends of the Earth says there's definitely an issue with contaminants from the mine:
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Should the horse tram tracks be fully reinstated?