A CROWD-funder has been launched to help the Burley-in-Wharfedale pump track project hit its £220,000 target.
The pump track will be a safe, free-to-use facility for cyclists, balance bikes, skateboards and scooter and wheelchair users of all ages.
Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust is leading the scheme and has already secured £81,000 thanks to the generosity of contributors including Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council, the Community Trust, PayDirt, Orbea Bicycles and Otley Cycling Club.
Now the Trust is opening up the fundraising so that local people can get involved and help to finance the track, which is planned to start construction in Spring 2025 on the existing skatepark site.
Sam Needham, of Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust and a trustee of the project, said: “We need to raise about £200,000 for this project. With donations and pledges so far we have raised nearly half of this amount.
“To enable us to apply for further sports funding we need to show that the community is willing to help with our funding. We are therefore trying to raise over £20,000 with crowdfunding in this instance.
“We are looking to build this facility by the spring of 2025 at a similar time to the separate pavilion project sponsored by Burley Trojans F.C.”
Planning permission for the project was granted in 2023 and the relevant land surveys have been completed to allow the scheme to go ahead once funding is secured.
Sam added: “Burley-in-Wharfedale is an expanding community bursting with energy and a passion. Our vision is to create a safe, exciting, and inclusive space for everyone to embrace the joy of cycling and other forms of wheels.
“Whether you're a seasoned rider or a little one taking their first wobbly ride, this project is for you. Located in the heart of the Wharfe Valley, this project will really be a hub for the wider community surrounding the village and is exactly what we need in an area that has such a strong cycling community.
“The project is fully supported by Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council (BPC) and Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust (BWCT) with financial pledges of £25,000 each. It is also supported by the Burley Trojans football club and is part of the justification for building a new community pavilion on the recreation ground.
“The project itself has already been granted planning permission, so all we need to do now is raise more funds.”
Pump tracks are known to have widespread benefits, including encouraging outdoor physical activity and exercise, and are designed to be accessible to a wide range of skill levels, from toddlers on balance bikes to professional cyclists.
They serve as a focal point for the community, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging and keep young people engaged in positive activities, reducing the risk of delinquent behaviour.
Pump tracks can also encourage social interaction and networking among community members, strengthening social bonds.
Sam added: "Alongside our crowdfunding campaign we're inviting local businesses and commercial enterprises to get behind the project. If you have a business and would like to donate or sponsor the project, please get in touch via our email for details."
To join in the crowdfunder go to https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/biwpumptrack
And for more information about the project see www.biwpumptrack.co.uk/
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