Recently, I've moved from Eastbourne to Hellingly and brought my passion for biking along with me. As a child, I delighted in the pump track based in Hampden Park, creating memories and bonding with my friends in a safe and engaging environment. However, in Hellingly, the same provision is disappointingly absent. Many children can be seen riding their scooters and BMX bikes around, often resorting to riding on the roads due to a lack of designated spaces for outdoor sports. We are left yearning for an area to practice our skills and enjoy our hobbies freely. 

Establishing a local pump track and skatepark in Hellingly can bring countless benefits to this community. Such facilities encourage physical activity and social interaction among children, promoting a healthier lifestyle and reducing screen time. They provide a safe and fun environment for kids to exercise their skills outside of main roads, reducing the chances of road accidents. In the UK, it's found that each £1 invested in cycling infrastructure can yield a £5.50 return over 30 years in the form of reduced health problems, less traffic congestion and improved working productivity (Sustrans report, 2014).

Therefore, we're proposing the development of a local pump track and skatepark in the Hellingly region. This initiative could enrich our community, provide a much-needed space for outdoor enthusiasts, and potentially save young lives from the dangers of riding on the roadways. This petition personal to me and many others who advocate for more outdoor spaces in our communities, especially Hellingly.

Let's work together for a healthier, safer and more engaging Hellingly. Please, sign this petition and let your voices be heard.