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Plans for £1m closed loop cycle track in Fife

Consultation will take place before council budget is confirmed in February

A proposal for a closed loop cycle track has been included in Fife council’s draft budget proposals for next year. The £1m facility is planned for land near Lochgelly High School and if approved would be the first dedicated cycling circuit in Scotland.

The circuit would be a multi-use facility, according to Councillor Mark Hood.

“If approved, it would allow us to deliver a wide range of cycle activities. This would include toddlers on balance bikes, older people returning to cycling, cycle skills and confidence builders. It would also ensure clubs, groups and events had a top class facility to develop riders and run activities. The circuit would also be suitable for running and cyclocross and have room for further developments to ensure we cater for the future.”

The council’s final budget will be set in February following consultation and Hood said he hoped this was one project the community would embrace.

“We anticipate that the circuit would cover its operating costs and even generate a surplus. Studies show that for every £1 invested in sport and physical activity, it saves around £3.20 in future health costs so this really would be a spend to save initiative.”

Earlier this year, it was announced that over the next two years nearly £5m will be invested in cycling projects for Fife. £2.4m has been secured from Transport Scotland through Sustrans’ Community Link Programmes – a sum that will be matched by Fife Council.

This year saw Fife’s inaugural cycling festival. A number of events took place during the eight-day event, including a Criterium race in Dunfermline, a time trial and a sportive. There was also a junior mountain bike circuit race at Lochore Meadows, a refresher cycling family event at Beveridge Park and cycle speedway for youngsters in Dunfermline.

Councillor David Ross concluded: “This was a great race that has had tremendous feedback from the cycling community. Fife’s first Cycling Festival has inspired and encouraged people of all ages and abilities to get on a bike or take their cycling to the next level.”

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2 comments

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don simon fbpe | 9 years ago
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Good effort.  41

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Yorky-M | 9 years ago
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Super. Not keen on taking my kids onto the road so things like this are just amazing for the sports future.

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