Cllr Simon Morrall (Conservative, Frankley Great Park): “During my election in 2018, I mentioned that growing up I used to skateboard on Great Park and how this gave me something to do, kept me out of trouble, and gave me a purpose. I talked about how our young people, in particular our young boys, are being left behind by society and no one seems to care about this issue. In 2019 I was approached by a resident who shared my passion and informed me about funding available from Sports England & British Cycling, backed by the UK Government. We discussed a few ideas before I referred the resident to the local Frankley Parish Council who have funds available to support local projects, such as this bid, should the public support them.”
The concept of an off-road bike park would be made by a series of loops and shapes that have small hills and banks that allow the rider to gain and lose speed and can be used by bikes, scooters, and skateboards. The bike track will have a smooth tarmac surface with good drainage. They are low maintenance with a lifespan projected at 20 years. Forestdale Games Court off Holly Hill Road has been identified as an ideal location which Cllr Simon Morrall said he has already confirmed with Birmingham City Council that the site could become available should a bid come forward from the New Frankley Parish Council.
3CJ Cycle Centre in Longbridge has shared and signed the petition saying: “Since 1980 I have no better solution to get people motivated than an off road bike ride. A local pump track or an Austrian mountain the results are very similar. This can only be a good thing. Help give Birmingham what it needs, infrastructure.”
Cycle South Brum, part of Eco Birmingham based in Northfield have also supported the project saying: “Eco Birmingham are eager to support a bike park in Frankley. It will not only entertain young people in the area, but hopefully inspire them and help normalise the use of active travel (cycling, scooting and skating) in their daily lives. More residents using active travel will not only result in a fitter and happier population, but help reduce Birmingham’s dangerously high air pollution levels.”
Cllr Simon Morrall Concluded: “With the Common Wealth Games fast approaching in 2022, this would be a perfect opportunity to create a lasting legacy for our young people. South West Birmingham is very often forgotten about, while Birmingham City Council have said that their ambition for the games is to get more young people from deprived communities active, healthy, and engaged in sport. Well here is their opportunity. This could become something really special and create a lasting impact on future generations.”
Have Your Say
• Sign the online petition HERE
• Get more information at www.frankleyforward.org.uk
• Also you can email newfrankleyparishcouncil@gmail.com
BVoices is committed in supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Please see the following:
• Community Chat for south west Birmingham • Coronavirus support
• Community Classroom – Resources for parents & carers
• Community Together • Mental Health & Wellbeing through COVID-19
• Community Kindness • Positive acts during the COVID-19 outbreak
• SW Brum Camera Club – for the love of the lens – Photography Birmingham
• SWBrum Jobs Page
• Community Recycle – Repurpose & Reuse – SW Birmingham & Surrounding
