Proposed Longridge pump track prompts mixture of views

The proposed pump track would sit on the Recreation Ground, Longridge. Pic credit: Redline Planning.

Plans to build a bicycle pump track on Longridge Recreation Ground have prompted mixed views in the town.

Ribble Valley Council has submitted plans for the new pump track, with the consultation closing this Friday. The track would be purpose-built for cycling in a BMX-style.

In the planning statement submitted by Redline Planning, it says: “The track will be built within the Longridge Recreation Ground, adjacent to the existing skate park and play area.

“The track will be constructed on an area of unused open space, outwith and not impinging upon the existing football pitches.

“The pump track will serve both local residents and visitors, with the specific purpose to provide a safe, friendly, public community space that encourages sociability in the town.”

Some concerns have been expressed, with Longridge Field Day posting a statement on its Facebook page.

It said: “The planning application for the proposed pump track on ‘the rec’ has now gone live and is open to comments/objections.

“While we are not against the proposed pump track we have our concerns over its size and location as this will obviously impact future field days regarding access and egress onto the field, as the remaining access can become very wet and boggy.

“All we ask is that the council improve drainage across the whole field so that it remains accessible to all users including the circus [and] fun fairs.”

However, the post prompted a range of responses.

One comment asked: “It’s on par with the skate park that’s already there it’s a very small amount of space when you have the entire field for the arena and fair. Our kids need more stuff to do.”

Another comment pointed to the success of other pump tracks.

It said: “We’ve just come home from a holiday down south and every park we visited had a pump track. It’s such a great asset for the village and field day will always be fully supported. If you support the younger generation they will support you. “

Full details for the proposed pump track can be viewed here.

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