Petition: Build a Modern Pump Track in Pontypool Park, Not Another Concrete Skatepark

We, the undersigned, petition Torfaen County Borough Council to halt current plans to rebuild the dilapidated skatepark at Pontypool Park. Instead, we call on the council to reallocate those funds to construct a modern, all-wheeled, tarmac pump track at a separate, dedicated site within the park.

Why a Pump Track is the Smarter Choice for Pontypool

• True Inclusivity: Traditional concrete skateparks are notoriously exclusive. A professionally designed tarmac pump track (built by specialists like Velosolutions or Clark & Kent) welcomes everything on wheels. It serves toddlers on balance bikes, skateboarders, scooter riders, wheelchair users, and the massive local mountain bike and e-MTB community.
• Safer and Less Anti-Social: Because pump tracks require continuous forward momentum ("pumping" the rollers and berms to generate speed), users are constantly in motion. This naturally reduces the static loitering and anti-social behavior often associated with traditional skateparks. With no vertical drops or sharp coping edges, it is an incredibly forgiving and safe environment for all ages.
• Massive Cost Savings: Concrete skateparks quickly suffer from surface cracking and joint failures, leading to heavy maintenance costs. A high-grade asphalt pump track requires virtually no ongoing upkeep, features integrated year-round drainage, and lasts for decades with basic litter management.

We Don't Need Another Skatepark—We Need Innovation

There are already at least 36 traditional skateparks within an hour's drive of Pontypool, including layouts right on our doorstep in Cwmbran and Trevethin. In stark contrast, high-quality tarmac pump tracks are incredibly rare in our region, with the only nearby examples being in Gilwern and Caerphilly. Local riders currently have to travel all the way to Bristol or North Wales to find a decent track.

By moving the facility away from the immediate children's playground to eliminate collision risks, Torfaen Council has the chance to create a flagship regional attraction. A modern pump track will draw visiting families and riders from across South Wales, bringing valuable regular footfall to Pontypool’s local shops and cafes.

Don't let our community funds be spent on an outdated concept. Sign this petition to bring a world-class, all-inclusive tarmac pump track to Pontypool!

Click here to see my FULL proposition I will be sharing with Torfaen County Borough Council! 

*Note: The image used in this ePetition is an artistic rendering if what COULD be built.