BMX enthusiasts and families with children learning to ride have a new home in our shire with the opening of the South Kempsey pump track this week.
The pump track, located at the South Kempsey Public Recreation Reserve near the Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery and the Macleay River Historical Museum, was opened by Kempsey Shire Mayor Leo Hauville, and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, said the NSW Government contributed $459,987 towards the project.
"This new pump track and learn to ride track will be a popular place for families to gather and are great additions to the local community," Minister Scully said.
"This is another great example of the NSW Government continuing to deliver high quality, vibrant public open spaces with long lasting community benefits."
Bike riders from first timers to BMX Bandits are catered for with a learn to ride track placed next to the pump track, all part of a partnership between Kempsey Shire Council and the NSW Government as part of a Places to Play Grant, worth approximately $460,000.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, said the pump track demonstrates the importance of investing in high quality, adventuresome spaces that support community health and promote wellbeing in our communities.
"From young teens to mature riders, this precinct will create a central space South Kempsey families can take pride in, where they feel inspired to be outdoors, active in the community, and develop a wide range of skills," Mr Kemp said.
"Our youth are looking for activities and excitement outdoors, and it's great to see Council identify this need and commit to building important infrastructure in our open spaces that will create a lasting positive benefit."
Leo Hauville, Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that the community were excited to use the new facilities.
"Council staff designed these outstanding modern tracks with local user groups to suit a range of skill levels," said Mr Hauville.
"We are proud to offer a central place for young people in the Kempsey Shire to learn, develop their bike riding fitness and skills, and have a lot of fun. It is located under many shady trees with plenty of nearby parking.
"It is a priority for Council to create opportunities and safe places for young people and their families to gather and play together, and this pump track is a great example of that."
The asphalt pump track features a series of sweeping, banked turns, designed for speed, with some viewing areas for family and friends.
The Learn to Ride track has been designed to teach young and learner riders how to safely ride on the road, using road markings, signs, pedestrian crossings and hills, all while in a safe and fun environment.
The pump track is now open and free to access for the community, with the temporary fencing remaining in place while timber bollards are installed, with works scheduled between 5-9 August.
