New city centre pump track opens

Young people have a new reason to venture into the city centre with the official opening tonight of a new pump track for bikes, skateboards, skates and scooters.

A rider tackles the new pump track in Mollet Street.

The pump track launch has been timed to coincide with the Winter Solstice Night Light Bike Ride which will sees hundreds of illuminated riders of all ages take to Hagley Park at dark.

Riders are invited to stop by the new pump track, in Mollet Street, part of the South Frame near the Justice and Emergency Precinct, before or after the night ride event.

The pump track is wooden and a cross between a mini-velodrome loop track and a BMX course, with bumps and corners designed for fun skills riding and generating speed without pedalling.

Gap Filler is behind the track, which has been designed and installed to provide an exciting space for youth and the young at heart to discover and be active in the city.

“The kids on scooters, bikes and skateboards that we’ve seen using the track are really enjoying it. They’re stopping by on their way to or from Washington Way skatepark” says Damian Doyle, Gap Filler project developer.

“So many activities and spaces for youth were lost in the quakes so it feels good to address that somewhat with this project.”