Residents will be able to enjoy a new and free-to-use leisure resource, as Woolwell prepares to welcome a wheeled 'pump track'.
In the Council's drive to support community health and wellbeing, £80,000 from Section 106 (s106) funding relating to the 'Land off Pinewood Drive' development, will be used to install a pump track near the Woolwell Centre, which can be enjoyed by the local community all year round.
Pump tracks are facilities for wheeled sports equipment, which when ridden properly, do not require pedalling or pushing, but rather a 'pumping' action to maintain momentum. This new type of facility can be enjoyed by all abilities and ages, from small children up to experienced riders, and can be used by BMX, mountain bikes, skateboards, scooters and balance bikes.
The Council will soon be asking the local community for input into the design of the track and a contractor will be selected through a tender process this summer.
Woolwell will also benefit from a further £30,000 to improve the Council's outdoor play facilities and £51,100.34 to provide a covered seating area for the Woolwell Centre, both adjacent to the recreational area.
Cllr Nicky Hopwood, South Hams District Council's Ward Member for Woolwell, said: "We're delighted to announce news of this fantastic development which will enhance and complement the existing outdoor recreation facilities in Woolwell. The new track facility will be built with everyone in mind; from young beginners to experienced riders as well as providing features useable those with adaptive bikes or wheelchairs.
"With the health and wellbeing of our residents being a top priority, we hope these new facilities will encourage new and existing visitors to develop their bike skills and confidence while enjoying the opportunity for more exercise and socialising."
A s106 agreement is between a developer and the local planning authority, showing the measures a developer must take to reduce their impact on the community.
South Hams District Council's Cllr Victor Abbott, Lead Member for Community Services and Leisure, said: "The allocation of s106 funding from local developments is carefully considered by the Council, ensuring communities benefit from new and improved facilities for many years to come. Since the start of 2023, the Council has used s106 funding to support a range of projects, including upgrades at West Alvington's village hall and cricket club, improvements to a public footpath in South Brent and new children's play equipment in Ivybridge.
"This important funding will ensure that the Woolwell community and beyond will have a fantastic leisure resource to enjoy for many years to come."