Plans for new £90,000 Somerset pump track

Ben Umfreville, James Mason and Don Howe have put forward plans to create the track at Culvercliffe

A cycling enthusiast has launched a fundraising campaign to support the development of a new pump track in Somerset.

Minehead Pump Track Community Interest Company (CIC) has put forward plans to create the track at Culvercliffe next to the South West Coast Path.

The facility, which would cost around £90,000, would provide a "free, accessible space for riders of all ages and abilities" it says.

CIC director James Mason is leading the fundraising effort to kickstart the project by cycling 55 miles from Minehead to Exmouth on his BMX to raise £1,000.

Pump tracks are continuous circuits which are ridden by generating momentum through body movements - pumping - rather than pedalling.

Mr Mason said the track would help to fill a gap in the town where community facilities for young people are lacking.

"We moved to Minehead three years ago, and I quickly realised that there's a real lack of things for children to do here," he said.

"We have got Exmoor on our doorstep which is great for cycling, but it is tough for beginners.

"The pump track would provide a safe, accessible space for young people of all abilities to stay active."

The proposed location of the pump track was chosen for its accessibility, parking and minimal disruption to residents, he added.

James Mason is leading the fundraising effort to kickstart the project by cycling 55 miles from Minehead to Exmouth on his BMX to raise £1,000.

Mr Mason is expected to take on his fundraising challenge in April or May, and said he said he was inspired to take on the challenge as he wanted to "drum up some interest" for the project in a "unique" way.

"I am a keen cyclist but doing the 55-mile ride on a normal bike seemed to be too achievable," Mason said.

"I like to set the bar high, and a coast to coast challenge on a BMX felt like the right way to do it."

A spokesperson for Minehead Town Council said it welcomes "all ideas that are supported by the community" and they will listen to the proposals "with interest".

"We appreciate the passion and effort that has gone into this project so far, and we recognise that community initiatives like this can have real benefits," the spokesperson added.

"Any site would need careful evaluation as land is being transferred from Somerset Council to us through a devolution deal, with the prospect of certain restrictive covenants to consider, we're open to exploring all possibilities."