A new 175-metre floodlit ‘pump track’ has been unveiled in Bathgate.
The facility in Balbardie Park can be used by bikes, balance bikes, scooters, skateboards, surf-skateboards, and skates.
It is the longest pump track in West Lothian and the area’s first floodlit track.
The track has been designed to be ridden without pedalling, using only your bodyweight to ‘pump’ yourself around the track.
Executive councillor for the environment at West Lothian Council, Tom Conn, said: “I am delighted the new park is now open for use.
“Pump tracks started off being used as a fun way to build up bike skills and particularly skills for off-road cycling.
“But these new asphalt tracks can also be used to improve skateboarding, surfing and snowboarding skills.
“The track is situated together with lots of other outdoor facilities, including the Peace Mile and the historic BMX track and the skatepark, plus the indoor facilities at Xcite Bathgate.
“It’s close to central Bathgate and Beecraigs mountain-bike facilities, so you can take your pump track skills to the slopes and we expect the track to be used by individuals, cycling groups, community groups and local schools.”
Funding was received via developer contributions, sportscotland, and Suez Communities Trust.
West Lothian Council worked with Green Action Trust (GAT) to develop, fundraise for and build the track.
Other stakeholders include Balbardie Primary School Autism Unit, West Lothian Bike Library, Sustrans iBike initiative, Active Schools, Lowport Centre, West Lothian Clarion, West Lothian Youth Action Project, West Lothian Leisure (Xcite), and Bathgate Town Centre Management Group. It is designed by Architrail Velosolutions UK.
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