Charters Towers pumped for new pump track

Construction of a pump track in Charters Towers will start on 5 October 2021 following the site preparation work last week.

The pump track is a circuit featuring banked turns and is designed to be used with bikes, scooters and skateboard.

The track will replace the existing BMX track at Defiance Mill Park and is scheduled to finish before Christmas.

Councillor Kate Hastie, whose portfolio includes sports and recreation, said the track will be modular in design.

“This means it will be safer for users and reduce the maintenance costs for Council,” she said.

“The pump track will improve the aesthetics and usability of the space.

“It will also have positive flow-on effects on the local economy, tourism industry and will increase social interaction and inclusivity,” Cr Hastie said.

The pump track was identified by Council as one of its 10 priority projects to be completed by 2024 and is a major component of the Mosman Creek Corridor Master Plan.

Commercial construction company JMac Construction has been awarded the project and has sourced the modular system from overseas.

The track will be 160 metres long and 1.2 metres wide and take up an area of 85 metres by 26 metres.

Cr Hastie said the track will give riders a dedicated space to showcase their skills and gain confidence in all manner of aerial and non-aerial manoeuvres.

“It will also be another piece of community infrastructure to promote participation in physical activity through fun.

“The pump track will further improve the liveability of Charters Towers and make the area more appealing to young families,” she said.

The full scope of the works will include site clearing and earthworks, installation of moduline pump track sections, turfing, irrigation, bench seating, footpaths and solar lighting.

Construction is expected to finish by early December 2021.