New BMX track for Lower Stondon

January will see work starting on the new £24,500 facility which is being built in Lower Stondon.

A neglected field behind Station Road will be the location for the track, which is aimed to provide a new recreational area for youngsters to use.

The project is the brainchild of the Stondon Recreation Association (SRA).

The decision to install a BMX track was taken following a consultation which took place in the village earlier this year.

The field used to be a popular destination for families in the area but over time visitor numbers have declined.

Fewer families were using the field as play equipment like slides and swings had been removed for safety reasons after they reached a state of disrepair.

Funding for the project has come in the form of grants from organisations like Central Bedfordshire Council, Stondon Parish Council and The Veolia Environmental Trust.

The Trust has awarded £19,500 to the scheme through the Landfill Communities Fund.

The SRA has also held events throughout the year which have helped to provide additional money.

Chris Brooks, chairman of the SRA said: “This is such an exciting venture for the SRA, as for years we just did not know what we could do in Station Road to improve these facilities and give the village something new.

“Now, by listening to what local youth had to say, and the hard work of many dedicated individuals on and outside the committee, we finally have the opportunity to give Stondon something to be proud of.”

Veolia Environmental Trust executive director Margaret Cobbold said: “The Trust supports a wide variety of community and environmental projects with funding through the Landfill Communities Fund.

“I look forward to seeing this unique community project get underway and create a great recreation space that will encourage young people to learn new skills and keep active.”