BMX dirt jumps in Broadbridge Heath to re-open

This is thanks to the initiative of a group of 17 year olds; Matt Davis, Ben Kemp and Marcus King who enlisted the help of the Parish Council and Countryside Properties.

oSPA visited the site in July and commented that the completed Dirt Jump site will offer an exciting opportunity for riders and young people and concluded that the site can be used as intended after the recommendations in their report had been implemented.

These recommendations included moving some of the jumps to maintain a two meter boundary around the jumps, clearing vegetation and cutting back overhanging branches.

Matt Davis explains: “The Dirt Jumps at Broadbridge Heath have been around for over 10 years and have gradually got bigger and better.

“They have mostly been created by hand with spades and shovels, and by a digger paid for by the Parish Council. We wanted to extend the route to create a beginners and advanced course which needed mechanical help, so Ben and I made a presentation at the Annual Parish Council Meeting.

“Thanks to their generosity and that of West Sussex County Council, we secured funding to pay for a digger to build the jumps.

“Unfortunately, due to severe rain at Easter the works were put on hold and the track couldn’t be finished.

“We are all delighted that the jumps will be in use again next year, especially as the two different tracks are available to suit all ranges of ability and thank Countryside Properties for their help during the October half term holidays.”

Andrew Carrington, Strategic Land Director of Countryside Properties comments: “We are delighted to support Matt, Ben, Marcus and their friends to re-open this great facility.

“The works involved filling in a few jumps, cutting overhanging trees, levelling a number of bends and moving some jumps from the borders of the track.

“We have also helped create a footpath through the site to ensure the safety of the general public. By the Spring, it is hoped that the site will re-open and we would encourage any interested local teenagers and adults to visit the dirt jumps to try them out.”

Viv Edwards, Chairman of Broadbridge Heath Parish Council comments: “The Parish Council are firm supporters of the Broadbridge Heath Dirt Jumps and we are delighted that Countryside Properties has kindly carried out some of the works recommended by RoSPA.

“The boys have worked extremely hard to raise funds to improve the jumps, and it is thanks to their dedication and hard work that this excellent facility will be open again next year for everyone to use.”

Broadbridge Heath Dirt Jumps are located on Byfleets Lane. Generally used by teenagers aged 13 and above, the dirt jumps can accommodate around 30 people at a time and are generally open for use from Spring until Autumn each year, closing in bad weather to ensure public safety.

Countryside Properties Development, “Wickhurst Green,” will also provide additional open spaces for play and recreation within Broadbridge Heath.

“As well as providing much-needed new homes for Horsham District, Wickhurst Green will become home to a new primary school with playing fields, village centre and improved transport connections, including an extensive footpath/cycleway network.

For further information on new homes at Wickhurst Green please visit www.wickhurstgreen.com or contact Countryside Properties on 01403 276700. Report and picture submitted.