A crowd funder for the Burley-in-Wharfedale pump track and balance bike projects has been launched which would benefit the village and wider community.
The Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust is leading the scheme, which will offer free to use pump tracks - giving a safe, fun and free-to-use facility for cyclists, balance bikes, skateboards, scooters and wheelchair users of all ages.
The target is £220,000 and so far, £81,000 has been contributed from Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council & Community Trust, PayDirt, Orbea Bicycles and Otley Cycling Club. The Trust is hoping to raise £20,000 from crowd funding, this public support will enable it to apply for further sports funding.
Sam Needham, a trustee at the Trust said: “We plan to have the tracks constructed in spring 2025, to coincide with the Burley Trojans football pavilion and football pitch revamp project. Every pound and penny brings us closer to breaking ground on this exciting project. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact!
“There will be two separate pump tracks being built on the designated areas. A balance bike and accessibility track that will be replacing the skatepark, which is out-dated and in need of replacing.
“And a main pump track, which will be built in its own space adjacent to the basketball court and current skatepark site.“
Pump tracks are known to have widespread benefits, they encourage outdoor physical activity and exercise, promoting a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages whether they are on a bike, scooter, skateboard or rollerblades.
The project was granted planning permission in 2023.
To join in the crowd funder visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/biwpumptrack
And for more information about the project see www.biwpumptrack.co.uk