Clackmannan welcomed its newest addition to the town last week with the opening of the long awaited ‘Pump Track’ in King George V Park. The track is the result of years of planning, development and construction amongst community organisations and contractors ‘On Track’.

The Pump Track has been a long-anticipated development for the community over the past 6 years with negotiations taking place between the local council and community groups in the area. Promoted by both Clackmannan Development Trust and Clackmannan Community Council, the pump track is a welcome addition to Clackmannan’s facilities.

The project was generously funded by Clackmannanshire Council with over £140,000 being pumped into the development alongside a £50,000 grant from ‘sportscotland’. The funding secured for the construction of the track was the result of hard work from all involved.

Pete Goodsir, former Chair of Clackmannan Development Trust said “The CDT are delighted at the completion of the pump track after many years of campaigning alongside many other groups. I’m sure it will be well used and an incredible asset to the town.”

The track has already been put to great use with over 30 kids from all over the Wee County and beyond coming to test their bike skills and have some fun on its opening day. Clackmannan Development Trust have also been holding ‘Taster Session’ classes for locals to come along and build their confidence on the track as well as providing brushes and equipment to help them keep the space clean and tidy.

The new development is expected to attract visitors the town as it is the only one of its kind in over 30 miles. Further increasing Clackmannan’s appeal to cyclists from far and wide, the track will act as a first step in showcasing all the town has to offer. The news has already attracted teens from as far as Dunfermline to make the trip to Clackmannan and get themselves involved.

Carol Smith from Clackmannan Community Council said that “It is so good to finally see the Pump Track is up and running in Clackmannan and it’s fabulous seeing all the bikers and skateboarders enjoying this great facility!” Looking to the future she said, “Hopefully we will continue to see more improvements in our community.”

The Pump Track’s official opening is planned for February 8th in King George V Park with local council representatives expected to attend.

Words by Ruaraidh Holden.