Cyclists are peddling an ambitious proposal to return a velodrome to a neglected West Footscray park.
The centrepiece of the proposed Maribyrnong Community Cycling Hub is the return of a cycling track that existed at Hansen Reserve from the mid-1930s until being torn up by Maribyrnong council about a decade ago.
The project is outlined in a submission to the council as it prepares a new Hansen Reserve Master plan, due to include a major upgrade to the playground and other park and open space improvements.
Project advocate John Symons said the plan is to reinstate the velodrome track and include an education centre for bike skills and maintenance courses for all ages and abilities.
“The idea has evolved from being a cycling training and racing venue to having a more inclusive hub for teaching young kids and other people who are not feeling safe or confident on the roads,” he said.
“We are trying to get the message across about the problems with the lack of activity for people and the health costs.”
The project is backed by a number of key parties, including Footscray Cycling Club, Footscray City College and the Seddon Community Bank.
Mr Symons, who was instrumental in a mountain biking course being incorporated into plans for the revitalisation of Footscray’s Quarry Park, said a cycling track could be returned to Hansen Reserve for as little as $200,000, because much of the banking from the original velodrome is still in place.
“Some velodromes have steep banking and a concrete structure with lots of reinforcing, but we envisage resurfacing the existing lower banking, which would be much cheaper,” he said. Mr Symons urges anyone who supports the proposal to lodge a submission during the master plan consultation period, which closes July 24.
Details: maribyrnong.engagementhq.com/have-your-say-hansen-reserve-masterplan
