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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Kirsty Paterson

New cycle skills trails at Falkirk park gets green light

Plans to create a new network of cycle skills trails that will encourage people of all ages and abilities to get on their bikes have been approved for Falkirk 's Callendar Park.

Once funding for the project has been confirmed work can start on the new cycle skill trails.

Falkirk Museums, who were consulted on the plans, agreed that the new trails would not detract from the historic parkland, created in the 1780s, that surrounds the house.

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The parkland was once grazed by sheep and cattle to maintain the landscape, which eventually became a Par 3 nine-hole golf course.

The course has not been used since the first signs of the Coronavirus pandemic but the council now to bring the golf course pavilion back into use and create a place to house bike repair space well as storage of equipment and changing facilities.

The plans were drawn up by Falkirk Community Trust - now part of Falkirk Council - which says it will create a "flagship public space".

When the application was made, a spokesperson for Falkirk Council said: "There will be sufficient space to retain the golf course and include the new cycle facility within the area.

"The cycle trails would also be carefully designed in keeping with the surrounding area, being mindful of other park users.

"The beginner’s cycling area for basic skills coaching would be flat, located just up from the Pavilion, and ideally situated for parents to watch and supervise.

"The mountain bike skills area would be located on the west side and offer progression, build fitness, and improve bike handling skills. The existing Pavilion, which is currently underused, would be re-purposed as a cycle and outdoor activity hub."

The trail was designed by CRContracting (CRC) and Collective Trax (CTX) on behalf of Falkirk Community Trust and it is hoped they will be used by cycling clubs locally and sports development to deliver a range of cycle training programmes.

Falkirk Council believes there is high demand for cycling facilities across the Falkirk area as even prior to the recent surge in demand, Falkirk cycling clubs were already reporting waiting lists with more than 150 children.

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