A new £110,000 pump track has been approved for Sandy Hill, Farnham, after Waverley Borough Council backed the project using money from community infrastructure levy (CIL) developer contributions.
Like this?
The track, designed for bikers, scooter riders and skateboarders of all ages, will feature asphalted mounds and banked turns. Funding was granted following a public consultation that drew more than 1,100 responses, with almost 90% in favour of the scheme.
Council leader Paul Follows described the project as “fundamentally positive and a no-brainer,” highlighting its potential to bring investment and activity to one of the borough’s most deprived areas. Councillor Kika Mirylees, portfolio holder for community services and leisure, said: “This is something that we can all be proud of. The community has spoken clearly in support.”
A Return to Farnham’s BMX Roots
The new track marks a revival of cycling heritage in Sandy Hill. In the 1970s the area hosted national-level BMX finals, attracting large crowds and cementing its place in local cycling history. That track eventually fell into disrepair, overgrown and constrained by nearby environmental protections.
For many residents, the new development offers a chance to reconnect with that legacy, providing a facility not only for today’s young riders but also for parents and grandparents who once raced or spectated there.
Next Steps and Timeline
While the funding is secured, the scheme is conditional on planning permission being granted by 1 April 2026. If permission is not achieved by that date, the allocated funds could be lost.
The project reflects a growing trend of councils using developer contributions to support cycling infrastructure. Beyond Sandy Hill, it could serve as a model for other communities seeking to expand access to inclusive, multi-use cycling and wheeled sports facilities.
Community Asset in the Making
If approved, the Sandy Hill pump track will provide a free, year-round recreational space, designed to encourage active lifestyles, social interaction, and skills development for riders of different abilities.
For Farnham, it represents both a return to its cycling heritage and an investment in the next generation of riders.
Read: 15 times Published: 19/08/2025🥇 Trail of the Year – Winner Announced!
