Former BMX word champion tests out new pump track in Willand

Former BMX world champion Kye Forte used his skills to test out a new pump track in Willand which was funded by contributions from housebuilder Bellway.

The Devon-based rider, whose company Forte Trailscapes constructed the track, joined more than 40 local youngsters for the official opening of the new facility on Jubilee Field.

As part of the planning agreement for its Fox Mill Gardens development in Willand, Bellway is making contributions of more than £1 million to help improve local infrastructure and services. Willand Parish Council has used some of this money to replace the old BMX track.

The new pump track was officially opened on Friday 8 September by Barry Warren, the chairman of Willand Parish Council, and Anne Hawkins, the headteacher of Willand School. Bellway sales advisor Jill Moores also attended the ceremony.

A pump track is a circuit of rollers, banked turns and features designed to be ridden completely by riders "pumping" - generating momentum by up and down body movements, instead of pedalling or pushing.

The Willand pump track, which is one of only a handful in Devon, was constructed by Forte Trailscapes, who have more than 20 years’ worth of experience in delivering specialised bike tracks.

Willand Parish Council Chairman Barry Warren said: “Willand is increasing in size and needs all the facilities it can acquire for the benefit of the expanding community.

“The provision of this pump track has been five years in the making but it adds another dimension to the various play and fitness equipment within the Jubilee Field.  I thank all those who have worked with me to achieve this.  There is more to come.”

Tim Lund, Sales Director for Bellway South West, said: “It was fantastic to see so many local youngsters turn up on the official launch day to try out this brilliant new pump track.  They were all very excited to ride the track and also meet Kye Forte – a former BMX world champion and expert rider who helped design the track. “The creation of this new pump track in Willand is an example of the wider benefits that new housing developments bring to an area. As well as delivering much-needed new homes, they also provide funding for facilities which benefit not only new residents but existing members of the community.”

“The new pump track will give local children the opportunity to take part in a fun activity, socialise with friends and improve their fitness in a healthy outdoor environment.” 

Bellway South West is building 125 new homes at Fox Mill Gardens, off Meadow Park, with the site featuring 81 houses for private sale and 44 affordable homes for local people through low-cost rent and shared ownership.

For more information, visit https://bellway.co.uk/new-homes/south-west/fox-mill-gardens.