Ellon Wheel Park is one step closer
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The dream of a multi-wheel facility in Ellon could be one step closer to reality with the submission of a planning request to Aberdeenshire Council.
Having successfully raised enough money for a feasability study, Ellon Wheel Park group have been motivated by the "excellent feedback" from the study describing it as a "promising start"
The proposed wheel park would be situated in Gordon Park and would consist of three areas - a mountain bike pump track, a multi-use 600m cycle circuit and a skate and BMX park - creating a dedicated space for wheeled sport enthusiasts from both Ellon and further afield.
The group's aim by creating this space is to inspire people to give popular wheel sports - such as BMX, scootering, skateboarding and rollerblading - a try in a dedicated environment designed for varying abilities.
Many local wheel sport users currently travel into Aberdeen to access facilities there.
Group member Ashley Armstrong said: "We believe everyone should have the chance to learn to ride their bikes, scooters, skateboards and skates, develop their skills and enjoy wheeled sport in an inclusive, safe, traffic-free environment.
"We believe that everyone of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to participate in sport as an individual."
Ellon Wheel Park has also received support from north-east Olympian Neah Evans.
The silver medal cyclist said that the facilities would contribute to improved mental health in young people in the area as well as helping to reduce carbon footprint locally.
Paralympian Neil Fachie, from Aberdeen, has also voiced his support for the project.
The project has been largely supported by the local community, however some have expressed concerns about proposed site.
Ellon Wheel Park group chairman Colin Allanach said: "Some youths don’t do well in team and organised sports, but we see how adrenaline sports like mountain biking and skateboarding can have a positive influence on people’s lives and mental wellbeing.
"Ellon has grown significantly in the last 20 years, but amenities haven’t necessarily kept pace with house-building.
"Particularly after what young people have gone through over the last two years, now more than ever it’s imperative that we give them a chance to focus on learning and developing new skills and positive behaviours, and it is our firm belief that this facility will help that.
"Having said that, the wheel park will be there for anyone of any age and ability level – our underpinning philosophy in creating this facility is providing a locally accessible, fun environment for anyone looking to take part in wheel sports."
While the group are busy applying for funding behind the scenes, anybody who would like to personally donate to bring the wheel park one step closer to reality can do so online at: www.gofundme.com/f/ellon-wheel-park-community-project.
You can keep up to date with all the latest from Ellon Wheel Park on Facebook and Instagram.
The last day to submit comment on the application to Aberdeenshire Council is March 10.
