Cyclopark in Gravesend launches play village to help children in Kent learn to ride

Cyclopark in Gravesend, has opened a new attraction to help children learn to ride bikes safely.

The Cycloland Play Village is made up of mini roads, traffic lights, a petrol station and even a Dartford Crossing bridge, which according to bosses, is already proving very popular with youngsters and parents.

The Dartford Crossing feature at Cycloland have proved popular with youngsters. Picture: Cyclopark
The Dartford Crossing feature at Cycloland have proved popular with youngsters. Picture: Cyclopark

The £100,000 project was funded by British Cycling, The Kent Community Foundation, The Cyclopark Trust and The Rees Jeffreys Road Fund and will provide children with the opportunity to learn to ride in a safe environment, building their confidence - whilst learning about road safety - as well as having fun.

Cycloland opened last Friday, October 9, and will also provide road safety and learn to ride sessions for school children from the area.

Andy Farr, head of business planning and transformation at British Cycling said: "All involved in this project, and indeed with the Cyclopark Charity Trust are doing great work to show how a facility can engage a community.

"We are pleased to support their innovative efforts to break down many of the barriers stopping children from learning to cycle, and instead teach them to become confident road users in a friendly and safe environment.

“The project is a great example of how cycling skills can be learnt in an interactive environment, and in a way that provides a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family."

Youngsters on their bikes having fun at the Cycloland attraction. Picture: Cyclopark
Youngsters on their bikes having fun at the Cycloland attraction. Picture: Cyclopark

Cyclopark, in Watling Street, is a multi-sports facility focussed on cycling and launched in 2012 as part of the legacy of the Olympics.

It features a road cycling circuit, mountain bike trails, cyclo-cross courses, café, skatepark, gym and a cycle play area and the venue has regularly hosted international, national and regional BMX, Cyclo-Cross and road cycling events.

It is open daily from 9am, seven days a week - all year round with bikes available to hire.

To find out more, click here www.cyclopark.com

For more things to do with the kids across Kent visit www.mykentfamily.co.uk

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