In recent months, a group of local youths have used their own initiative to construct modest earth ramps in this wooded area. Far from causing damage or anti-social behaviour, the young people have demonstrated responsibility: they have relocated ramps away from public paths to avoid obstruction, collected litter (including items not their own), and created a facility that is already enjoyed by younger children in the community as well as teenagers.
This initiative aligns with repeated calls for young people to be
active, outdoors and off screens. Parents report their children
returning home muddy but engaged in healthy exercise and
socialising constructively. Precisely the outcomes promoted by
schools, health professionals, and national youth policies.
Historical precedent exists: similar informal jumps operated in the
same woodland approximately 25 years ago and in nearby areas
(including between Littlethorpe Park and Thorpe Meadows around 20
years ago) without incident.
The area faces growing pressure from housing development, including
the potential loss of Enderby golf course. This will increase
demand for accessible outdoor recreation spaces for young people.
With no dedicated BMX or youth bike facility currently available in
Narborough or Enderby (following the closure of the Huncote bmx
track), these jumps represent a low-cost, community-driven
solution.
We acknowledge concerns about potential anti-social behaviour, but
note that the same risks apply to any congregational space (e.g.,
skateparks or playgrounds) and can be managed through community
involvement and routine policing — as has already occurred
here without escalation.
A local councillor (Cllr Forey) has already responded positively to
correspondence on this matter, agreeing with the sentiment and
noting that a formal skatepark could be a longer-term aspiration.
For now, modest support — such as encouragement, basic safety
guidance, or a small grant for materials would suffice and send a
powerful message that the Council values youth initiative.
This petition builds on strong local support already expressed via social media (including dozens of supportive comments from parents and residents, with significant engagement) and mirrors previous community campaigns, such as the recent efforts to reopen the Huncote bmx track.
Supporting this low-intervention, high-impact project will demonstrate the Council’s commitment to active lifestyles, community wellbeing, and giving young people positive outlets in our growing district.
This ePetition runs from 20/03/2026 to 30/06/2026.
10 people have signed this ePetition.