JESSIE’s BLOG: A Really Positive Evening at Perdiswell – and an Exciting Step for Young People

I left the recent drop-in event about the new pump track at Perdiswell feeling genuinely upbeat. It was one of those evenings that reminds you why local politics matters. Families, young people, officers and councillors all in the same space, having calm, constructive conversations about something positive for our community.

Mel and Karen weren’t able to attend on the night, so I was pleased to be there as the ambassador for our Claines team. It was important to listen, answer questions, and make sure people knew their views were being heard. What stood out most was how positive the atmosphere was — and how engaged young people were. Too often decisions are made about young people rather than with them, so seeing them so involved was really encouraging.

The proposed pump track will be larger than the one at Battenhall and designed to work for all abilities. There will be a progression loop for beginners to build confidence, alongside a faster route for more experienced riders. The design is fully inclusive, suitable for bikes, scooters, skateboards, adaptive bikes, wheelchairs and roller blades. With parking, toilets and a café nearby at Perdiswell Leisure Centre, it’s a space that will work well for families.

Construction is planned to start in January, with the aim of opening in April, weather permitting. We’re encouraging everyone to come along to the drop-in session on Wednesday from 3pm to 6pm, take a look at the designs and find out more. Pump tracks provide fun, active spaces for people of all ages, and this is a great chance to see how the new track will benefit Claines. If you can’t attend, the plans will be available on the council website afterwards.

For me, evenings like this show the best of local government — listening properly, working constructively, and keeping young people at the heart of decisions. I’m proud to represent Claines on projects like this and really looking forward to seeing the track come to life.