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Warnings for safety after Silsden kids call for pump track by The Hive

Friday, 18 July 2025 12:18

The Hive Community Centre, Silsden

A group of local children have taken matters into their own hands by starting to build their own pump track on the field behind The Hive Community Centre.

The children were inspired by similar facilities in places like Cowling.

However, concerns have been raised about safety, permissions, and long-term sustainability.

The field is currently owned by Bradford Council and is not under The Hive’s jurisdiction.

The team at The Hive has been working for nearly a decade to secure a long-term lease, with Bradford Council, through a community asset transfer, which would allow the space to be developed safely and in line with local needs.

Jill Cook, Centre Manager at The Hive, supports the children’s enthusiasm but urges caution:

“It’s brilliant to see young people wanting to be active and make use of local space, they’re clearly passionate about having something like a pump track here, and I’d love to support that.

"But right now, the area isn’t safe or suitable without proper planning.”

Concerns have been raised that the use of the makeshift track could lead to accidents.

The community centre and adjacent field is used by a wide range of visitors including but not limited to, pregnant women, families with young children, plus Kanga Sport's Holiday Club are also active throughout the holidays inside and outside.

Jill continued:

“We don’t want anyone getting hurt.

“And we also don’t want these young people to feel discouraged.

"What they’re asking for is valid, they just need the community and council behind them to do it properly.”

Jill is calling on the wider community to support the idea and work together toward a safe, properly managed pump track for local children in the future.

Residents who’d like to express support or offer help can get in touch with The Hive directly via email to hello@thehivesilsden.co.uk

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