Disabled cyclists have welcomed plans for a new cycling facility in Chessington, after it received more than £122,000 of National Lottery funding to improve sports facilities, writes Alice Sharman.
The proposed closed road circuit track at Moor Lane, Chessington, will be open to schools, older people and other community groups.
It will focus on helping to increase cycling participation by disabled people within the borough of Kingston.
Sandie Barker, head of development for Special Olympics Surrey, said: “It is just going to be a whole new lease of life for them to get to learn to ride a bike here, to go from four wheels to two wheels.
Some of the athletes are so excited to be able to cycle and get into competitions as well as just cycling with their families.
“It is the best thing to happen for local people with a disability because most cycling tracks only allow two wheels, not four.”
Councillor Simon James, Kingston Council’s lead member for sport, said: “We successfully hosted the London 2012 Olympic Cycle road races and time trials as well as this month’s Ride London cycling event and we would like to ensure the cycling legacy is firmly embedded in the borough for years to come.”
The cycle track is expected to be built next to the Moor Lane Children and Young People’s Development Service, providing it is granted planning permission.
It had previously secured £130,000 from the London Marathon Charitable Trust.
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