Last updated: December 2025
Latest Update
In December 2025, East Suffolk Council approved revised plans for the Kesgrave Pump Track, allowing the project to move forward following detailed design amendments.
The approved changes include a more challenging track layout, adjustments to fencing, improved access paths, and drainage features. Kesgrave Town Council will now work with the project funder and contractors to progress towards construction in early 2026.
“The Town Council is delighted that the revised pump track plan has been approved. We are excited to work with Guy, Tru7, and Clark & Kent in the new year to bring this fantastic project for Kesgrave to life.”
About the Pump Track
The Kesgrave Pump Track is a purpose-built outdoor facility designed for bikes, scooters, skateboards, adaptive bikes, and wheelchair users. Pump tracks use rollers, banked turns, and flowing features that allow riders to generate momentum through body movement rather than pedalling.
The facility is intended for users of all ages and abilities, from beginners to experienced riders, and will be free to access.
Location
The pump track will be located on the west side of the Millennium Sports Ground car park, in an area known locally as Longstrops. The site has been selected to minimise impact on nearby residents while integrating with existing sports and recreation facilities.
Funding and Delivery
The project is a six-figure community investment funded by Guy Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer of the TRU7 Group, who has supported the project as a benefactor wishing to give back to Kesgrave.
The pump track has been designed by Clark & Kent Contractors, an award-winning company responsible for delivering nationally recognised cycling facilities, including the BMX track used at the London 2012 Olympics..
Project Timeline
January 2024 – Initial Planning Application
Plans for a new pump track were submitted to East Suffolk Council as part of Kesgrave Town Council’s commitment to expanding recreational facilities. The proposal followed public consultation and identified vacant public open space at Millennium Sports Ground as the preferred site.
September 2024 – Revised Plans Following Consultation
Following public feedback, revised plans were submitted addressing concerns about visual impact, safety, and anti-social behaviour. Measures included a seven-foot green perimeter fence, locked gates during night-time hours, CCTV coverage, hedging to screen the site, and the absence of external lighting.
November 2024 – Planning Approval Granted
East Suffolk Council unanimously approved the pump track at a planning committee meeting on 26 November 2024, concluding that the benefits of the facility outweighed potential concerns.
June 2025 – Redesign Submitted
Following a site visit involving Kesgrave Town Council, Clark & Kent Contractors, and the project funder, a redesign was submitted to create a more challenging and engaging track layout. Proposed changes included a revised circuit, fencing adjustments, and repositioning of site furniture.
November–December 2025 – Revised Design Approved
After addressing technical inconsistencies in submitted plans, East Suffolk Council approved the revised design. The final layout includes a longer track, additional turns and humps, improved drainage, adjusted fencing, and a dedicated access path from the main gate. No objections were received during this stage.
Addressing Community Concerns
Throughout the planning process, Kesgrave Town Council has worked closely with residents, Suffolk Police, East Suffolk Council officers, and youth service providers to address concerns relating to noise, environmental impact, and anti-social behaviour.
Mitigation measures include CCTV coverage, secure fencing, locked access outside permitted hours, clear signage on appropriate use, and ongoing monitoring in partnership with relevant agencies.
Next Steps
With the revised plans now approved, the next phase of the project will focus on final design coordination, site preparation, and scheduling construction. Work is expected to begin in early 2026, subject to final arrangements.
