A BMX track at a popular Evesham park is under threat after it was closed without warning by Wychavon council chiefs who now want to hear from town residents about what to do with it in the future.
The cycle track at Charity Brook Park has been closed to local residents on and around Davies Road and council bosses told the Observer the decision was made as the track had reached the end of its natural life.
Charity Brook Park also serves local schools in Four Pools Road and homes on the Charity Brook development and was revamped in 2007 to provide new play areas, paths, seats and the cycle track.
Funding for this work was provided by the Big Lottery and Wychavon District Council but now council chiefs say the timber on the site is rotting, rendering it unsafe for use by Evesham youngsters and their parents.
The decision angered local resident Jason Ayres who told the Observer the closure looked like an attempt to get rid of the track.
“This little gem is a wonderful resource for our children and it would be a crying shame if it were lost,” he said.
“My two children aged eight and 11 years old were very upset when we went down there as we do every weekend. The sign states it isn’t safe but I can’t see much wrong with it.
In response, Jon Hulbert, senior Parks and Greenspace Officer for Wychavon District Council, said: “Unfortunately we have had to take the decision to close the BMX track at Charity Brook Park as the timbers are rotting and it is unsafe to use.
“This is not surprising as it has been in place for ten years now and has reached the end of its lifespan.
“Rather than simply replace it, we have decided to take the opportunity to ask users and the public for their views on the future of the track. Do people use and value the cycle track and want an up-to-date replacement or would they like to see something else in its place?
“No decisions have been made and feedback will be used to help inform our future plans.”
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/charity-brook-park to air your views before January 31.
