After 6 years since the initial idea and two years fundraising by the Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust and Parish Council, it been announced that a top quality pump and balance bike track will start construction early in 2026.
Since its conception the goal along with Bradford Council’s Parks Department was to deliver the best quality tracks, constructed by specialist bike track builders who are the best in their fields on the recreation ground in the village.
The target was £220,000 from the start, to deliver the project was ambitious but they knew it could be done, as trustee of the project Sam Needham explains:
“Since being granted planning permission in 2023, we’ve been busy fundraising and drumming up an overwhelming amount of local and national support for the project and are proud to have exceeded our target fund with the help of our amazing community and project backers.
“For those that don’t know, pump tracks are both playgrounds and training facilities for bikers, skateboarders or scooter riders of all skill levels and ages. They are highly popular destinations that become a hive of community activity. Riders enjoy practicing the basic skills of carrying momentum, improving balance and building speed by using their arms and legs to pump their bike/board/scooter around the track. As riders improve their skills, the tracks are designed to provide the option for more challenges with increased speed and skill, so no matter your age or skill level. There will be plenty of fun for all.”
The Burley-in-Wharfedale project will consist of two tracks, a balance bike track made up of smaller features and shorter in overall length, which will be perfect for the younger, beginner riders. Then there will also be a larger scale, longer pump track with bigger features and of a progressive design that’s suitable for all ages and abilities.
The contractor, Velosolutions UK who won the contract with Bradford Council, are globally renowned for their trail building and pump track construction and are the benchmark standard for tracks like this.
Sam adds:
“It’s safe to say the project is in good hands with Velosolutions UK.
“It’s been a journey to get to this point, with lots of hard work and dedication by our small team on the Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust.
“We’d like to thank everyone who’s personally supported the project to date and helped turn a dream into a reality. Special thanks to our stakeholders too who’ve been incredibly generous in their support - Ilkley Cycling Club, Otley Cycling Club, Santa Cruz Bicycles, Orbea Bicycles, Ilkley Round Table, Humble Bikes, Steel City Media and the National Lottery, we couldn’t have done it without you.”
Construction is set to start in February with the hope of opening the tracks by late spring/early summer.
To follow the progress and support the project please visit https://www.biwpumptrack.co.uk/pumptrackproject
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