RESIDENTS living close to a Barnard Castle play area are to be asked again for their thoughts on the facilities after town councillors were told it would cost up to £50,000 to install a cycle track.
Members of the town council's services committee were told that when residents of Kalafat, Green Lane and Bartlemere were quizzed three years ago, a track where young children could cycle in safety came out on top of the wish list.
Town clerk Michael King told members the town was now at the point where it would be useful to find out how much it would cost.
The council approached play provider Kompan, who came up with a design to give an idea of what was possible.
This covered an area adjacent to the swings, comprising a Tarmac surface complete with markings.
“It is likely that a scheme of this kind would require a budget of up to £50,000,” said Mr King.
He reminded members that just over £8,000 for Green Lane had been awarded by Teesdale Action Partnership in December 2016 – although the council would need to confirm this was still available.
In addition to the cycle track, the installation of football posts had also been agreed as part of any improvements to the play area.
These would cost about £1,000, Mr King said.
Cllr Rima Chatterjee said she did not think such a big and expensive cycle track was required, preferring instead a simple route around the play area.
She also thought much of the ground would be too wet for goal posts.
Cllr Richard Child thought £50,000 for a cycle track “seemed steep”, while Cllr Kelly Blissett added: “It is a good idea but a very expensive idea.”
Chairman Cllr Roget Peat suggested organising another meeting with residents.
He asked: “Do they want full sized goalposts? Do they want two goalposts or just one for a kick around?”
He suggested the council draw up a number of options for residents to discuss, including a quote for a cycle path round the play area and for the cost of a five-a-side goal.
