PLANS have been submitted for the creation of a pump track in Burley-in-Wharfedale to encourage more cycling and walking.

The proposals from Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council and Burley Community Trust would see the current skatepark at the recreation ground north of Clarence Place replaced with the track comprising a circuit of rollers, banked tuns and features designed to be ridden by “pumping” or using momentum generated by body movements.

It would be suitable not just for cyclists but for skateboarders, roller-bladers, scooter riders and would even be wheelchair accessible.

The application received this week by Bradford Council planners says: “Well-engineered pump tracks have unique features that allow children and adults of all skill levels to enjoy them at the same time, without fear of injury.

“A feature that a five-year-old can roll through can be used as a gap jump for more advanced riders. All riding surfaces and edges are low to the ground, so riders are not at risk of falling from a high point. Rounded edges, gentle embankments and perfect geometry guarantee a safe ride.”

The work will involve the excavation of the area and subsequent formation of track bumps and berms of varying heights (between 0.4m and 1.8m), with a minimum track width of 2m.

This shaped area will be surfaced with asphalt, with painted lines following the pump track edges to highlight lines of priority and delineate the pump track route.

The new facility, says the application, will also tackle problems of anti-social behaviour in the area. It says: “The proposals will address local resident’s concerns about social isolation and antisocial behaviour, and absence of suitable age-appropriate facilities for under-represented groups.

“The proposed pump track will provide challenge, adventure and play for all abilities and ages reducing antisocial behaviour – which benefit all residents.”

The new development would also take a portion of the adjacent field space but would not encroach on to the football pitch used by Burley Trojans.

The football club recently obtained planning permission (ref. 22/00175/FUL) for the construction of a new pavilion (including showers, toilets and a small club room) within the Recreation Ground. The proposed pump track will also enable more use of this pavilion facility, says the report.

The application adds: “A study in Rhondda Valley showed a pump track installed in 2009 reduced antisocial behaviour by 70%, giving local youths the combination of good exercise, a sense of community, and a challenge to focus and develop their skills.

“This project will therefore benefit all local residents, encourage cycling, reduce antisocial behaviour and encourage healthy outdoor sporting activities.”

The full planning application can be viewed here.