Across Sutton Coldfield, hundreds of young people want to ride their bikes for fitness, fun, and independence. However, persistent bike thefts, robberies, and intimidation from people riding electric bikes in and around Sutton Park have left many too afraid to ride alone and most incidents go unreported.

At a time of surging screen use, rising obesity and growing mental health struggles, safe outdoor activity is imperative. Yet our town provides no dedicated spaces for young people to gather safely, build confidence and connect through riding bikes. Sutton Park is a site of special scientific interest and is well used by people walking in the park and is therefore unsuitable for young people to create and ride mountain bikes. The nearest dedicated site for mountain biking, Cannock Chase, is unreachable by public transport, pricing out anyone without access to a car, bike rack and travel funds.

We would like Birmingham City Council to explore any unused land owned by them to create a dedicated bike trail space co-designed, built and led by local young people in Sutton Coldfield.

Through hands-on involvement in planning, landscaping, grant writing and daily logistics, young people will gain real-world skills in leadership, teamwork and practical landscaping . Most importantly, it gives them a safe hub to belong to and will encourage physical exercise outside.

Please sign and share this petition to give Sutton Coldfield’s young people a safe, legitimate place to ride, learn and thrive outdoors.