Community-led project to build pump track in Moore Park

Keen for a pump track at Milton’s Moore Park are (front, from left) Grayson Young, 8, Leo...
Keen for a pump track at Milton’s Moore Park are (front, from left) Grayson Young, 8, Leo Mathieson, 7, Spencer Morton, 7, Jed Marshall, 6, Lincoln Marshall 10 and (back) Carson Powick, 10. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Milton looks set to get its own pump track, following the recent completion of a project in South Otago neighbour Balclutha.

The Clutha District Council gave the community-led project at Moore Park unanimous approval on Thursday, during its meeting in Balclutha.

A report on the project, prepared by council acting head of community facilities and operations Mike Goldsmith, said it was expected to cost $173,770, which would be funded through grants and the community.

There would be no cost to ratepayers arising from construction, although the track was expected to come under council control once complete.

The project would be led by Milton-Bruce community group Project Bruce, which had harnessed near-universal local support for the new facility during extensive consultation, the report said.

As Moore Park was prone to surface flooding, the budget for the project would include flood mitigation.

The track would also be placed in the least flood-prone part of the park on its southern edge, beside Abercrombie St.

Neighbouring Balclutha opened its own pump track — which allows riders of all ages to cycle a landscaped circuit — earlier this year.

During consultation, Project Bruce community development worker Catherine Paul said the Moore Park project would combine grass and asphalt with low-maintenance planting similar to a BMX track, ensuring the park remained picturesque.

"Project Bruce knows how important Milton’s green spaces are for all local people and has been committed to ensuring every community member is aware of the project proposal and has had the opportunity to voice their thoughts."

During Thursday’s meeting, Bruce ward councillor Gaynor Finch said the track had been well researched and planned.

"Project Bruce has carried out consultation on this project and it’s well supported locally. It’s a great facility for Milton and the park," she said.

The track will be designed to accommodate bikes, BMX, skateboards, rollerblades, scooters and adaptive mountain biking.

Dates for construction are yet to be confirmed.

richard.davison@odt.co.nz