We are a small rural community wishing to create a pump track, which will provide a safe and exciting environment for all ages to enjoy.
by Halwell and Moreleigh Pump Track in Totnes, Devon, United Kingdom
If, through your generous donations, we are able to exceed our target, it would give us the potential to build the pump track immediately and reduce the need for further fundraising through the year, thus benefitting our community sooner.
We are a small rural, centrally located South Hams Parish Council with a big plan! We would like to offer something for the younger generation in the parish, and further afield, from young tots on scooters to teenagers on mountain bikes. We have begun fundraising for a Pump Track, but we need your support.
Like many small communities the effects of Covid-19 remain and whilst community events have started again, there is still a degree of isolation which we believe the pump track can overcome. For the younger generation socialising in a safe and healthy environment is crucial, and being free to use will be greatly welcomed in a cost-of-living crisis.
Our village hall is in a fantastic location, 6 miles from Dartmouth, Kingsbridge and Totnes which makes it very accessible to over 25,000 people within a 15 minute drive. The hall lends itself to many types of functions which includes the use of our grounds. Therefore, making the pump track even more desirable.
A pump track is a continuous loop of banked turns, rollers & jumps. Designed and built in such a way that it enables users of all ability to circulate the track without the use of pedalling.
Pumping requires riders to push down then pull up through bending of arms & legs on the downward or upward slope of any roller or jump. This action is similar to keeping momentum on a swing by moving legs back & forwards. To perfect this technique, it can take time and be tiring but, once perfected, is a very satisfying feeling. Pump tracks offer a challenge to the very beginner, intermediate and expert rider.
Above: This is an aerial view of the proposed pump track.
Below: This is a photo of the area for the pump track.
We have engaged with a company called Forte Trailscapes (https://fortetrailscapes.com/), who are based in Devon, to give us an idea of potential scope and costings. They have developed many tracks over the last 20 years and build them to Rospa guidelines.
We also intend to invite quotes from other parties to ensure we are getting value for money.
We have discussed the need for planning permission with our South Hams District Councillor. The view is that the scheme would be able to be achieved through permitted development as it is being run by the Parish Council. If, for whatever reason, it did not qualify for permitted development the planners have suggested that an application would be positively received.
This project will cost in the region of £50,000. We have made some significant strides in raising this amount due to recent development within the parish, but we still have a way to go. We have created this Crowdfunding page to help raise funds along with other fundraising events of our own at the hall.
The Pump Track will provide a safe environment for children to improve their cycling skills and get involved in exercise. It will be a family focal point and improve community spirit, expanding social contact and reducing isolation. As it will be free it will also be an inclusive activity which is important in a cost of living crisis.
We are asking for your support to help us reach our goal. We think this would be a huge asset to the parish, which would draw people from all over the South Hams.
All donations are greatly received. Thank you in advance and we welcome you to come and use our pump track anytime!
This project offers rewards in return for your donation. Please select a reward below.