WORK is set to progress on a new ‘pump track’ in Malvern after a successful public consultation to determine a use for a recreational site adopted by the town council earlier this year.
Malvern Town Council officially adopted a 9000m squared area of land adjacent to their Adam Lee Play Park, Poolbrook in March.
During the consultation, an overwhelming 83 per cent of respondents supported the idea for the cycle track being built on the newly adopted land.
The pump track works are expected to be carried out by Clark & Kent Contractors at a cost close to £80,000, funded through Section 106 funding and Malvern Cycle Sport – who have invested £4,000 in the project.
A pump track is a circuit designed to be used by mountain bike and BMX riders relying solely on momentum or ‘pumping’, instead of pedaling to traverse the track.
The Adam Lee play park area could also benefit from a new zip-line or trim trail, which was heavily favoured during the consultation.
New wetlands and a permanent car park for visitors is also planned for the site.
Concerns had been raised by residents when photos were posted on Facebook of some of the turf on the land being ripped up.
Malvern Town Council told the Observer the removal of turf is to facilitate a temporary parking area for vehicles used during the construction.
The council are currently going through the design phase for the pump track which will have to fit within a 20 m by 70 m area of the site, with work expected to start in early 2024.
Town clerk, Linda Blake told the Observer the council were hopeful the project would be completed within 12 months however planning application will now need to be submitted to Malvern Hills
District Council before works can commence.
Linda said: “Some grounds works have started this week so that a suitable surface is in place ahead of construction.
“This will be the basis for a new car park when the development has been completed.
“The pump track will provide a new, exciting and much needed facility within the local area.”
