Westmorland and Furness council will be hosting three free pop-up pump tracks across the district this May.

Westmorland and Furness Council is bringing the thrill of cycling, skating, and scooting to three communities this May with three pop-up pump tracks in South Lakeland, Eden, and Furness.

The free, temporary tracks offer an exciting way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors and try something new while helping inform where and how permanent pump tracks could be developed in the future.

The pop-up events will take place as follows:

Saturday 3 (11am-6pm) and Sunday 4 May (11am-3pm) – Sandylands Park, Kendal

Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May (11am-7pm) – Penrith Leisure Centre

Tuesday 27 to Saturday 31 May (10am-4pm) – Dowdales School, Dalton-in-Furness

As part of the pop-up pump track events, the council will also be launching a short survey to gather feedback – not just on the events themselves, but on pump tracks in general. Whether you attend a pop-up or not, everyone is invited to have their say. The survey will be available online, on paper, and in person at the events, making it easy for people to share their views.

Councillor Virginia Taylor, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities and Localities, said:

“We’re excited to welcome local communities and see people of all ages and abilities getting involved throughout the month of May. These pop-up pump tracks are a fun, free way to enjoy a hobby, try something new, and spend time outdoors with friends or family. They’re only here for a short time, so we’re encouraging everyone to come along, have a go, and tell us what they think."

“Visitors can ride the tracks, take part in fun, and share their views through quick surveys available online, on paper, and in person. And it’s not just for those who attend – we want to hear from everyone. Your feedback will help us understand demand and shape plans for the future.”

Different sized bikes and helmets will be available to use each day during these hours, with people encouraged to bring their own equipment where possible."

Last year a local group launched a survey and announced it was working to see a permanent pump track built in Penrith and received over 400 positive response to the idea of a pump track in the town. Evolve Penrith today said “it’s good to see the council jumping on board the Pumptrack concept with the pop up track but Penrith needs a permanent facility created available all year for the local community and Evolve Penrith are continuing to work with local land owners to try to deliver a professionally designed and built pump track for the community.”

The council has said that riders using the pop up pump tracks must take responsibility for their own safety and abide by the track rules. All riders must wear a helmet at all times when on the track and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.