For many years, the youth of the town of Ellesmere have suggested to the Town Council that a cycle track would provide something else for them to do in the town. After researching what other councils around the county have to offer, the council agreed that building a track in Ellesmere would provide an outdoor activity that would have a positive effect on physical and mental health and wellbeing. After consultation with residents within the vicinity of the proposed site and local school children ranging from age 5 up to 15, the Council have agreed that they would like to engage with the community to provide a pump track on their recreation ground at Berwyn View. A pump track serves as a safe space for riders to practise their skills, reducing the likelihood of accidents in public areas or on the streets. It also creates an inclusive environment where beginners can learn alongside more experienced riders, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

What we'll deliver:

• A 240m long and 1.5m Wide Pump Track completed to ROSPA certification

Why it's a great idea:

A pump track provides a range of positive benefits, including: promoting outdoor recreation, physical activity and fitness, enhancing coordination and balance, fostering community interaction, offering a fun and accessible activity for people of all ages and skill levels, improving cycling skills, and creating a safe space to practice riding techniques; essentially making it a valuable asset for communities looking to encourage active lifestyles and social engagement. This not only helps improve fitness levels but also fosters a love for cycling and outdoor sports. The social aspect is also a big draw, as kids can ride together, cheer each other on, and even learn from one another. Pump tracks can enhance local parks and recreational spaces, making them more attractive to families and outdoor enthusiasts. This can lead to increased foot traffic and engagement in the area, benefiting local businesses within the town and promoting a vibrant community atmosphere.

Steps to get it done:

• To work with the local community to provide an all inclusive pump track.
• To work with local children to develop an outdoor active space that they will respect.

The inclusive nature of pump tracks means that children of all skill levels can participate, making it a welcoming space for everyone. Overall, pump tracks combine fun, fitness, and social interaction, making them a beloved activity for families and children! Most children say they love Pump Tracks because they provide an exciting and engaging way to enjoy outdoor activities. The thrilling design of the track, with its rollers and berms, allows kids to experience the joy of riding without the need for pedalling constantly—it's all about pumping their bikes to maintain speed. This sense of freedom and exhilaration can be incredibly appealing. In summary, building a pump track will be a fantastic investment for Ellesmere in promoting health, safety, community engagement, and local development, whilst being low maintenance compared to other recreational equipment.