New BMX track for east Leeds park

The proposals include a “pump track” for BMXs and other bicycles in Rein Park, Seacroft, and was developed with the council’s parks department and the LS14 trust.

Leeds City Council’s parks department, which put together the application, claimed the idea has strong support among local people.

A document submitted with the application stated: “The site to which the planning application relates is an area of recreational open space within Rein Park which is directly south of the existing MUGA ball game facility.

“The area where the pump track is proposed is covered in grass and surrounded by bitmac footpaths. The site also includes a grass area between the proposed Pump Track and the residential properties to the West and South, where tree screen planting is proposed.”

The document added that completed questionnaires from local people showed “sustained support” for the plans.

Planners say the track would also “take advantage of existing topography” with a flatter starting loop area towards the north, and the track winding down the sloping area.

“French drains and drainage soakaways” will, the applicants claim, take away surface water and there will be tree planting in the grass areas between the pump track and the residential houses to the West and South to help screen the development.

The proposed Pump Track will include:

• Rectangular shaped starting loop on plateau area, consisting of table tops on each corner and at the centre point of each longer section. 2no. rolling bumps at 0.5m height in between each table top

• Downhill section of track, surfaced in compacted crushed limestone, consisting of:

Straight 1 with ramps up to 1m height

Straight 2 with ramps up to 1.5m height

Straight 3 with ramps up to 1m height

Straight 4 with ramps up to 1m height

Straight 5 with ramps up to 1m height

Berms at each corner surfaced in bitmac, not exceeding 2m height

• Uphill section of track, surfaced in compacted crushed limestone. returning to starting loop

• 15 no. trees planted to the West and South, between the pump track and houses Access The site is within the grassed area of Rein Park. The existing bitmac paths run to the East and West side of the proposed pump track development, providing easy access for the bicycles or pedestrian spectators.

A final decision is expected to be made by planning chiefs in the coming months.