A COMMUNITY survey is being carried out by a newly-formed group seeking support for plans to create a £90,000 bicycle pump track in Minehead.

Minehead Pump Track Community Interest Company was set up in February this year by three local men, James Mason, Donald Howe, and Ben Umfreville.

They have identified the Culvercliffe open space, close to Minehead Harbour and the start of South West Coast Path, as a preferred site for the track.

The site is level, which would help with construction, has parking and public toilets, and the location would not disturb residents.

There are also local businesses nearby which could cater for visitors staying overnight or wanting refreshments.

Culvercliffe, Minehead, where a group wants to create a bicycle pump track. PHOTO: Google Maps.
Culvercliffe, Minehead, where a group wants to create a bicycle pump track. PHOTO: Google Maps. ( )

Pump tracks are a purpose-built circuit of rollers, banked turns, and features designed to be ridden by riders ‘pumping’, generating momentum by up and down body movements, instead of pedalling or pushing.

Minehead town councillors will decide on Tuesday (April 29) whether to issue an open letter of support for the project.

In the meantime, the CIC is running an online survey which has already attracted nearly 200 supporters for the plans.

Mr Mason, a civil designer, has also raised more than half of the £2,000 the group needs to kick-start the project when he cycled coast to coast on his BMX bike the 55 miles between Minehead and Exmouth.

He said: “We are three passionate bike riders and fathers who have come together with a shared dream, to build a safe and exciting track for their local community to enjoy.

“To help us move forward with a full proposal to the council we have created a Google form to gauge the need from the community.

“Please do take five minutes to complete the form to help us with our plan to bring something new and exciting to Minehead.

“The vision is to design a track that is accessible, fun, and promotes a healthy, active lifestyle, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie among riders of all ages.

“The pump track will offer a safe and engaging environment where individuals can learn to ride, practice their skills, have fun, and stay active in a community-focused setting.

“Minehead is renowned for its stunning mountain bike trails on the hills, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all around.

“However, these trails, while exciting, are not necessarily accessible to all members of the community.”

Mr Mason said the group was aware Culvercliffe was already a popular location for both residents and visitors.

Culvercliffe had seen tree planting take place for the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, and the council had an ongoing rewilding project, while it was also popular with dog walkers.

He said: “The pump track proposals will be designed to ensure that none of the above-mentioned aspects will be interrupted.

“The jubilee trees and wilding area will remain as they are, and the pump track will be on the cut grass area next to the play area.

“Dog walkers will still have access to all three current pathways, tarmac, jubilee tree walk, and grass.”