New pump track joint funded by PCC officially opens in Thornley

Villagers are celebrating the arrival of an exciting new pump track to keep young people healthy and active thanks to a funding boost from Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.

The recreational facility has been developed in Thornley following a huge fundraising effort led by Thornley Parish Council and supported by a host of organisations including the Sir James Knott Trust, Durham County Council and the County Durham and Darlington PCC.

Pump tracks offer an exhilarating experience for cyclists, skateboarders, roller bladers and scooter riders laid out over a raised circuit with bumps and banked turns, away from the dangers of traffic. They allow people to navigate the track using momentum generated by their own body movements, rather than pedal or push power, which means they area ccessible to people of all skill levels and abilities.

The PCC provided a grant of £5,000 towards the £80,000 design and installation costs of the project with the remainder covered by the Parish Council and partners.

The project arose out of a need to increase recreational activity in the village for young people to deter crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) and to improve physical health and mental wellbeing.

Tackling ASB is a key commitment in the PCC’s new Police, Crime and Justice Plan with the Commissioner pledging to work with communities and partners to develop long-term solutions to problems in their areas and to divert children from engaging in ASB by funding positive,affordable and accessible diversionary activities.

Commissioner Joy Allen, who attended the official opening, said: “I am thrilled to see this fantastic facility completed and open for business. I have no doubt that it will be a hit throughout the long, summer months, and beyond, keeping younger residents occupied, entertained and most importantly active.

“It has taken an enormous amount of hard work, patience and commitment to get this project off the ground and my congratulations goes to all involved at Thornley Parish Council, and the many funding partners, for bringing it to reality.

“I know that ASB and criminal damage are key concerns for residents in the village, alongside the lack of facilities for young people. The pump track will be a vital asset, helping to foster pride and community spirit as well as offering young people a safe and fun space to socialise and form friendships.

“Pump tracks have also been shown to help improve both physical and mental health and can help to deter nuisance riding on the roads, making this facility and all-round winner for residents.”  

The pump track has been developed on land owned by the parish council in the central southern part of the village, which is easily accessible by a footpath.

The facility is expected to draw visitors from surrounding villages because there are no others close by.

Prior to the project, the parish council consulted residents about the proposals which drew support by more than 90% of respondents.

The track, which will be maintained by the parish council, will be freely open and available for public use every day.

Chair of Thornley Parish Council, Councillor Mrs Joyce Unsworth, said: “Thornley Parish Council are very pleased that the long-awaited pump track is now here and being enjoyed by children and young people. It offers a positive, active recreation space for people from the village and beyond, in the heart of our community.

"We extend our sincere thanks to the people and organisations whose funding made this project possible: Sir James Knott Trust; Former Durham County Councillors Jake Miller, Chris Varty and Lucy Hovvels; Joy Allen, Police and Crime Commissioner; Durham County Council Planning Support, and East Durham Area Action Partnership.”

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