Proposed Kesgrave pump track goes before planning committee

East Suffolk Council's planning committee will meet on Tuesday, November 26, to discuss Kesgrave Town Council's proposal for the track as well as the creation of a seven foot fence.

In September, public consultations were reopened after the town council revised its plans to address concerns by including the fence.

The pump track will located on the grounds of the Millennium Sports Hall if the plans are approved (Image: Google) Planning officers have recommend the application should be approved.

The track has been proposed in an green area next to Kesgrave Millennium Sports Ground called "Longstrops" which some residents argue should be maintained as a space for biodiversity and wildlife.

East Suffolk Council received 14 objections from residents who listed concerns including possible anti-social behaviour, crime and drug dealing and a rise in noise pollution. 

Other remarks from residents include the impact the pump track will have on dog walkers and public footpaths and that the construction could set a precedent for further development on the site.

The proposed location for the Kesgrave Pump track (Image: Google Maps) However, the council also received 12 letters of support from residents who praised the council's efforts to provide a fun activity for the town's young people, increase physical activity and to replace the informal pump track found in the forest that has been removed.

Read More: From running to dance: Kesgrave is county's most active town

Residents in support also argue that Longstrops is underutilised, and close enough to the car park at Millennium Sports Ground that vehicular access is good.

In the original application, the town council justified the construction of the track saying: [pump tracks] are a great way of supporting outdoor recreation and fitness" and "We wish to focus help on in these difficult post-Covid times of higher stress levels and increased mental ill-health in our young people."