Ireland's first 'learn to cycle' track has opened in Co Waterford after the facility was completed for €50,000. The track in Dungarvan is designed like the open roads - with mock traffic lights, road markings and junctions - to enable children learn to cycle safely ahead of venturing onto the roads.
The next phase of the development, a Performance Area, is at an advanced stage of construction and is due to be opened later this year. When completed the recreation park will include a BMX Pump Track and Skatepark.
The new learn to cycle track now already open is not unlike the old 'traffic school' in Clontarf, Dublin, though that was aimed around fostering road safety for children rather than being a cycling-specific facility.
The new learn to cycle track is aimed mainly at children but can also be used by anyone who wants some practice on their bikes before the hitting the roads or the nearby Waterford Greenway.
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"People have a new appreciation of the outdoors, and the numbers using such amenities are continuously growing," Cllr Tom Cronin, chair of Dungarvan-Lismore District Council.
"This new cycle track will give those who are new to cycling a chance to test out their wheels on a purpose-built track. It will be great to see people using this new amenity here at Fairlane Park in a safe and family-friendly environment.”
Kieran Kehoe, director of services and Dungarvan Town Manager said the new amenity was located at a site, in Fairlane, that was very accessible for people from a large catchment area.
"Dungarvan is a ‘Smarter Travel’ town, which means that Waterford City and County Council in promoting the safe use of cycling, this facility will enable children to learn a life skill which will encourage the use of sustainable transport methods and move from over reliance on cars as their only method of transport which will benefit the climate and the environment. Cycling around Dungarvan has never been safer.”
