Biking trail plan for Oakwell Hall

Kirklees Council’s Batley and Spen District Committee will meet today to decide whether to allocate £71,000 for the development of the route in the “under used” Toft Ings section of the country park.

A report to the meeting said the track would “provide a fun and exhilarating experience for mountain bikers and runners of all ages and abilities”.

It continued: “It will offer family friendly and all ability opportunities for increased physical activity, helping to improve health and wellbeing, whilst at the same time introducing a sense of fun in taking part in activities and enjoying the great out doors.”

The report lists other benefits of the scheme as attracting more visitors to the area and providing the potential to generate income through chargeable events.

It would also help to increase the length of time people stay at the country park, boosting spending at the shop and cafe.

Kirklees Museum and Galleries Service and the Kirklees Adventurous Activity Team would develop the track, with a specialist company carrying out construction.

It would be funded using the New Homes Bonus, a government grant given to the council as an incentive for house building in the area.

The first phase of the project would be the development of the dual track, including small jumps, rollers and berms.

This is expected to be completed within 12 months.

If the track is well-received, phase two would begin in Summer 2018 and would involve the installation of artwork, including sculptures, along the loop-shaped route.