AN exciting new cycling facility – funded by Warrington Borough Council and Great Sankey Parish Council – has opened in Dakota Park.
It’s a pump track – and it is the first properly surfaced track of its kind in the borough.
The track is a small, continuous circuit of banked turns, interspaced by rollers and other features that can be ridden on a bike without pedalling. It’s an increasingly popular way to encourage young people to exercise, while developing balancing and bike handling skills in a safe environment, away from traffic.
Its unique design allows riders to propel themselves using a pumping motion, eliminating the need for pedalling and making it accessible for everyone.
Aimed primarily at young people, pump tracks can be used by any type of bicycle, skateboards, scooters, and rollerblades. Featuring rounded edges, gentle embankments and perfect geometry, they are designed with safety in mind.
To celebrate the completion of the track, pupils from local school, Chapelford Primary, had some coaching from Clark and Kent, the company who designed and built the track. They were joined by deputy council leader Cllr Jean Flaherty, and council staff, along with Parish Council representatives, for the official opening.
As part of the celebration event, local people were invited to come along to the park for free cycle maintenance checks from Dr Bike’s experienced mechanic, and bike marking, which helps secure people’s bikes from theft.
The council’s Cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, Cllr Tony Higgins, said “It’s great news that the new pump track at Dakota Park has officially opened. It’s a fantastic new facility, providing a fun and safe space for children and young people of all abilities to develop their skills – not only in cycling, but in a range of other wheeled activities.
“We hope this new track will prove to be really popular. It’s a perfect place for young to learn fundamental skills, build confidence, and enjoy the outdoors with friends. We encourage everyone to head down to the park and give the pump track a try!”
Cllr Jean added: “I’m thrilled to see the pump track open at Dakota Park. It’s a great addition to the park, offering a safe and engaging environment for young people to enjoy cycling and more, get active, and develop key skills like balance and coordination – all while having a great time.
“There has been a fantastic team effort to get the pump track completed and we’re grateful to all the partners involved, including Cllr Paul Warburton for helping to drive the project forward, and the Parish Council, who joined the council in funding the track.”
