Are You Pumped about New Track in Kidsgrove?

Young people can have their say on initial plans for a pump track in Kidsgrove.

The Council is carrying out a short consultation exercise to gauge opinions on a proposed design for the new facility at Newchapel recreation ground.

A pump track is a looped sequence of rollers and banked turns and is designed to maximise momentum with minimal pedalling using BMX bikes, rollerblades, scooters, skateboards and wheelchairs.

The Council is earmarking almost £100,000 of the £750,000 advanced Town Deal funding it has received to improve residents’ health and well-being in the town – for capital projects delivered by the end of March – on the upgrade.

Clark and Kent Contractors, a specialist cycle track design and construction firm based in Ashley, has put together a proposal suitable for all abilities and types of track riding. It features three elevated starting platforms and a host of jumps and obstacles.

More information is available here https://bit.ly/2NX3sOw. Comments and ideas can be submitted via this link until Friday, 19 February. Officers are also contacting local schools to communicate with their pupils.

Cllr. Jill Waring, Cabinet member for leisure, culture and heritage, said: “The advanced Town Deal funding for Kidsgrove is absolutely fantastic news. It’s allowing us to deliver a number of exciting projects in the town very quickly – ahead of a potentially significant amount of further funding.

“The new pump track replaces old and informal ramps at the recreation ground and will provide young people with something fun, healthy and challenging to enjoy for years to come. Due to the nature of the funding, timescales are very tight and work is set to start very soon but the consultation gives youngsters in particular a chance to influence the design early on.”

The remaining advanced Town Deal funding is being spent on the early works associated with the refurbishment of Kidsgrove Sports Centre; filling a gap in match funding to guarantee the delivery of modern leisure facilities for the King’s School and the community; and a series of upgrades at Clough Hall Park. Meanwhile, the Council has received £1 million for projects in Newcastle town centre.