A BATTENHALL resident believes fears around the city's first pump track should be allayed as work continues on the site.

Pump track specialist Clark & Kent Contractors is working on the new track in Battenhall Park, Worcester which will be the first of its kind in the city.

The pump track was given the green light by Worcester City Council in January 2024 despite a mixed response to the plans during its consultation period last year.

Battenhall resident Gary Vallance, who has used over 200 pump tracks around the country with his son, said: "There has been a lot of scaremongering ahead of this being built.

"But my hope is that those who were on the fence about the track will see the enjoyment it brings once it's in operation.

"Any fears should be allayed."

Noise, anti-social behaviour, and litter were all cited as reasons by people who opposed the plans.

Worcester city councillor Louis Stephen said the pump track had been a "polarising issue for the community" back in September.

Mr Vallance said: "I have been working with the Battenhall and St Peter's Parish Council to help inform them during this process.

"I've attended the quarterly Partners and Communities Together meetings where I've been able to share my experience of these pump tracks.

"They're a space where kids can enjoy the fresh air and challenge themselves physically.

"There's nothing else like them in the country."

The pump track is designed for use with standard and adapted bikes, scooters, rollerblades, and skateboards.

Clark & Kent Contractors, who have built tracks for use in two Olympic Games, began working at Battenhall Park at the start of October.

Ollie Underwood, of Clark & Kent Contractors, said: "The pump track is progressing well and should be ready in two weeks.

"We're massively proud of these projects.

"You have to create things for the next generation that gets them engaged - create something more exciting that draws them in."

Stone has already been laid and packed on half the pump track, with digging continuing on the rest before tarmac will be laid to finish the track.

New turf will be laid around the track to complete the project.