Workington Pump Track, Cumbria

Workington BMX Pump Track

In 2024, Workington, a thriving town in Cumbria, unveiled its new tarmac pump track. This project is a testament to the community's commitment to promoting outdoor activities and healthy lifestyles.

The pump track was designed and constructed by Clark and Kent Contractors, renowned for its expertise in building world-class tracks for BMX, mountain biking, and skateboarding. This case study explores the Workington pump track's vision, design, construction, and impact.

The idea for the pump track was born from a local initiative to create more recreational facilities for young people in the area. Workington is home to several parks and sports facilities. Still, there was a growing demand for a space to cater for the increasing popularity of BMX biking, skateboarding, and other wheeled sports.

The local council sought to create a facility that would meet the needs of local riders and attract visitors from surrounding areas, contributing to the town's tourism and economy. Clark and Kent Contractors were selected for the project due to their extensive experience and innovative approach to pump track construction.

The collaborative design phase involved local stakeholders, community groups, riders, and the town council. Clark and Kent strongly emphasised ensuring the track is suitable for all skill levels, from novices to advanced riders.

The final design is versatile, offering different lines and features to keep riders engaged and challenged. The track is designed to encourage flow, with carefully calculated gradients and turns that allow riders to maintain momentum. The track features a continuous loop with a series of berms, rollers, and jumps with tarmac, giving a durable and low-maintenance surface that can withstand heavy use and varying weather conditions, which is particularly important given Cumbria's climate.

The overall track footprint is around 65 metres x 40 metres, with a track length between285 and 300 metres, depending on which way it is ridden. The design lends itself to all levels and types of riding, from young novice riders to experienced BMX track users. Berms feature rollers in and out where necessary to increase rider flow and engagement, while jumps and obstacles include doubles, rollers and angled rollers, and areas where flyouts can be accommodated. This is of great added value for freestyle users.

Workington pump track construction

Construction of the Workington pump track began in early 2024. Construction involved meticulous groundwork to ensure the base was stable and well-drained. The contractors also paid close attention to the surrounding landscape, integrating the track seamlessly into the existing environment.

The project includes drainage systems, landscaping with native plants, and seating and viewing areas for spectators. The project was completed on schedule and within budget.

Since its opening, the Workington pump track has attracted riders of all ages and skill levels. It is a popular spot for after-school activities, weekend outings, and small-scale competitions. The track draws visitors from neighbouring towns, boosting local businesses and increasing tourism.

The track has a positive impact on the community's health and well-being. It provides a fun and engaging way for people to stay active, encouraging physical fitness and outdoor activity. The track has also fostered a sense of community, bringing together people from different backgrounds to share in the enjoyment of the sport.

The pump track project comes in the wake of South Lakeland District Council's playground refurbishment at Queen's Park. It has been built on a disused piece of grassland next to the fire station in Moorclose, Workington, and has been developed alongside partner agencies as part of the Ashfield play area, located near three schools.

Clark and Kent have a proven track record of delivering tracks that are both challenging for experienced riders and accessible for beginners, making them the perfect fit for Workington's vision. Funding was provided by British Cycling from their Places to Ride capital grants programme, Sam's Fund (English Lakes Hotels), the Dulverton Trust, the Holehird Trust, and local fundraisers.

Contractors have delivered a facility that meets the needs of local riders and enhances the town's recreational offerings. As the track continues to be used and enjoyed, it is a testament to what can be achieved when vision and expertise come together harmoniously.