I have been hearing about plans to build Scotland’s cycle circuit track in Fife. Work is about to start on the 1.6km outdoor circuit, which will be built on land between Lochgelly High School and Lochore Meadows Country Park. It’s hoped it will open in early 2018.
The Fife Cycling Circuit will ensure clubs, groups and events have a top class facility to help with the development of riders. It will also offer a great base for events and community activities.
Cllr Judy Hamilton, Convener of the Council’s Community & Housing Services Committee, said: “We are committed to meeting the growing demand to develop cycling in Fife and this is one of the ways in which we are doing just that.
“The project has gained national attention already from the country’s strong cycling community and Fife Cycle Park will be able to attract regional, Scottish and British Championship events.
“It’s about so much more than delivering something new for existing cyclists though. There are still lots of people unable to access or return to cycling as an activity for sport, leisure or utility. The programmes at Fife Cycle Park will help to break down the main barriers to cycling by offering a range of bikes and activities for every ability and age of the local population enabling them to develop their skills and confidence.
“Children need to learn to ride a bike. This facility will offer fun lessons from balance bikes for toddlers to school children developing their skills. With most nurseries now delivering balance bike projects, this is the natural home for the next steps.
“Investing in physical activity, sport and sustainable travel, at a time when the council is facing increasingly tough budget pressures, helps to contribute to our bigger long term goals. The more we can do now to encourage people to be and stay active, as a preventative measure, the less the health-spend in the future.”
Artist’s impression of new Fife Cycling Circuit.
Cllr Linda Erskine, Convener of the Cowdenbeath Area Committee is keen to emphasis the local opportunities that the facility will bring. She added: “This circuit will put Lochgelly at the forefront of cycling in Scotland and give us the chance to develop a culture of cycling as a normal activity for residents in the area and across Fife.
Fife Cycle Park secured funding contributions from sportscotland and the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund.
Craig Burn, Scottish Cycling Chief Executive said: “Scottish Cycling is hugely excited to see ground broken today for the creation of the first regional level cycling facility in Scotland, The Fife Cycle Park.
“Closed road facilities are identified as a priority in Scottish Cycling’s Facilities Strategy for Cycling Development. They are fundamental in giving more opportunities for people to get on their bike and cycle in a safe environment.”
To keep up to date with the latest on Fife Cycle Park as the project develops, follow @VeloFife on Twitter, Cycling in Fife on Facebook or visit www.fifedirect.org.uk/cyclingcircuit.