Bike park takes shape

TAKING SHAPE: An artist's impression depicts the end result of the Community Bike Park being built adjacent to the Splash Centre in Whanganui.

The safety fences have been moved to reveal the first stage of the Community Bike Park being built next to the Splash Centre in Whanganui.

Recently a new fence has been constructed by Shane Stone Builders and plants and mulch have been supplied by Richard Te Ngahue (The Tree Truck) and Whanganui District Council.

Mitre 10 Mega Wanganui have also come on board, donating timber in order for Whanganui Intermediate students to design and construct bench seats to be placed under the fruit trees.

"It has been support such as this from businesses and schools that have helped make this community project possible," Sport Whanganui community sport manager Jodie Brunger said.

The smaller track is already in use.

"It is so rewarding to see so many children already using the smaller pump track already and we can't wait to get the senior pump track underway," Wanganui Mountain Bike Club spokesman Doug Rennie said.

To date this project has been dependent on a large network of businesses and volunteers such as Sport Whanganui, Wanganui Mountain Bike Club, The Bike Shed, Bullocks, Loaders, Jurgens Demolition, Andrew Horrocks, Dave Benefield, For our Kids, Harrisons Hire Master, Wanganui Hot Rod Club, Tar tech, Shane Stone Builders and The Tree Truck.

A sign donated by Morrie Gibbons Signs will soon be erected at the entrance to the park to recognise everyone who has contributed to this project to date

"This is a true community project for community, by community." Key design and construction partner Glen Bullock said.

Sport Whanganui and the Mountain Bike Club are grateful for the time and resource the many partners have already donated.

"A special mention must also go to the individuals who have given up their time over the past few weeks to trim the track and spread the mulch ready for planting. An extra big thank you to Harrisons Hire Master for donating their digger to use during these evening working bees," Brunger said.

The completion of paths, a picnic area, the learn to ride track and additional landscaping will all be part of the ongoing development of the project as funding and community partnerships allow.

Developers are also looking to secure more plants, signs for the learn to ride area, shade sails, shell rock for paths, and picnic tables for the park.

Anyone able to provide any of these items, or wish to support this project can contact Brunger at Sport Whanganui, jodie@sportwhanganui.co.nz