Published 21 October 2024
West Dunbartonshire Council has secured £225k for an exciting new mountain bike trail in Balloch Castle Country Park.
The money from the Cycling Facilities Fund will help deliver the project which will see a purpose built facility created in a designated section in the north of the park to support and encourage the development of cycling skills.
The project is a partnership between West Dunbartonshire Council and West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust with the fund administered by sportscotland and Scottish Cycling.
The 1km main trail which will be open to all will provide an engaging experience making use of the natural features of the site with climbing, descending and level sections.
It will also include a short ‘link’ section that will divide the main loop in two, providing more options for riders to vary their route around the facility.
The optional technical features will be similar to those found in a typical mountain bike skills park and allow riders to challenge themselves and be coached in a formal session.
Councillor David McBride, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “I am delighted that West Dunbartonshire Council has successfully applied for funding for this exciting project.
“The track will enhance the local area, attracting riders of all ages and abilities. It also opens up the real possibility that major events could take place here in future which is a thrilling prospect. I can’t wait to see this work progress.”
Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, added: “The funding from the Cycling Facilities Fund is incredibly welcome in order to develop this track for which there is a real appetite in the local area.”
West Dunbartonshire Council have been awarded £224,022 towards the trail, with the total cost of the project set to be £344,651.
The £8million Cycling Facilities Fund was established to build on the growing interest in cycling by developing a network of accessible facilities to encourage people of all ages to ride bikes and enjoy the sport. The investment has been made possible through a £4million commitment from the Scottish Government and £4million from sportscotland via National Lottery funds.