New pump track opens in Mildenhall

12 Dec 2023

A brand new, free-to-use pump track opens in Mildenhall on Saturday 16 December.

The £112,000 facility has been built by West Suffolk Council in the south west corner of the Mildenhall Hub site, between the 3G pitch and the River Lark.

Three designs were consulted on with local skate park users and at the pay-to-use Phoenix cycle park in Kentford. The design with the most support was by contractors 414, who delivered the 12 week build on time and to budget.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet member for Leisure said,
‘I’m delighted this all-weather pump track is ready for the holiday. It is designed for use by riders of all but the very youngest ages. There is a section for beginners and younger users to get started and move on to using the rest of the track.’

The new track replaces an old track in Mildenhall Woods, which had to be closed three years ago because of problems. The new track is freshly terraformed, tarmacked and turfed, in an open setting next to the River Lark, with excellent cycle paths. It was constructed using material saved from the footings for the neighbouring Mildenhall Hub.

Cllr Shipp adds,
“We have been looking for a new site for the track and the Hub is an ideal location, close to town and next to other sporting and community facilities. Taking these opportunities helped Mildenhall win ‘Most Active Town’ in the Suffolk Community Awards this year, and I pay tribute to the people who provide and develop all kinds of high quality, local, opportunities for participation.’

In 2022 a junior parkrun was established offering a dedicated event for 4- to 14-year-olds, and the council also opened a brand new skatepark at St John’s Recreation Ground. Facilities at Mildenhall Hub include a new gym, fitness studios, 3G pitch, swimming pools and sports hall with classes and activity for all.

---