Ringwood BMX Track is ready for riders following a major transformation.
The track, which has been in place for around 40 years, has had a £150,000 refurbishment with a new signage, start gate and surface, that make sure the berms, rollers and tabletops are riding better than ever.
Volunteers at Chesterfield BMX Racing Club have overseen the project and raised funds to ensure it could be delivered.
The club will be hosting an open celebration on Sunday 26 July from 11am to 4pm where members of the public can come along find out more about BMX racing and have a go on the new track. There will also be music, stalls and food.
Libby Hawkins, head coach at the club said: “I’m so incredibly proud of our team that there are no words for it – this improved track is game changing for our community. The final few weeks have been great with lots of people rallying around to get everything finished. I can’t wait to start running our sessions here again – to see what it gives to young people in terms of confidence, friendship, life skills and breaking down barriers, which they haven’t been able to access while cycling’s not been here."
The works have been funded through grants with significant funding being provided by Chesterfield Borough Council which leases the land to the BMX club.
Councillor Martin Stone, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for climate change, planning and the environment, said: “The club have done amazing work to raise funds, ensuring this track meets the standards needed and providing a fantastic facility for the community. We’re proud to support the club to deliver these improvements which will ensure everyone across our borough can experience BMX racing.
“Ringwood Park is a site that we are working hard to improve for all visitors and completing the track is just part of a programme of work to further enhance the park."
Other works in the park include an improved footpath which links both entrances to the park and makes access easier all year. Additional natural seating has been installed to provide more space for people to enjoy the park.
A new adventure trail is also being developed which will offer something different and provide families with an exciting experience. These works are expected to be completed over the next 12 months.
The refurbishment of the BMX track has been made possible through a collaborative fundraising effort between the club and Chesterfield Borough Council. Funding has been secured from a range of sources, including the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL); funding from the Mayor of the East Midlands and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF); Robertsons - YorBuild Fund; Access Sport Facilities Renovation Project, funded by the London Marathon Foundation; Galliford Try; and the Landfill Communities Fund, managed by the Derbyshire Environmental Trust.
In addition to these significant contributions, the club has successfully raised further funding through the generous support of other local organisations, local businesses, and supporters, demonstrating the strong community backing for the project.
For more information about the club and its coaching sessions visit the Chesterfield BMX Club Facebook page or email chesterfield_bmx@hotmail.com.
