Colchester council U-turn on decision to remove 'unsafe BMX jumps

Colchester Council had planned to remove the track in Iron Latch Woods, Chitts Hill, claiming it was unauthorised. 

Signs had popped up at the site much to the dismay of the hundreds of people who use it. 

Sign - the notice put up by the council (Image: Rachel Woods) The signs said: "We have identified that these unauthorised jumps are unsafe due to their design and construction and must be removed.

"These jumps should not be used in any circumstances. 

"If they are not removed by 15 November 2024, they will be dismantled and removed."

Fun - children enjoying the BMX track (Image: Rachel Woods)

A petition was started in a bid to save the track. 

Sam Ford, who started the petition, said: "Halstead Woods in Colchester has been a haven for me and my friends, providing us with a secure and harmonious environment for mountain biking, and a space where we can connect with nature.

"This woodland has quickly become more than just an outdoor activity spot; it has become a cherished part of our lives.

"However, imminent plans from the council threaten to take over and potentially ruin this treasured woodland. Like many green spaces throughout the UK, Halstead Woods is now at risk of being deprived of its character and biodiversity."

Group - dozens of people use the track (Image: Zara Elizabeth) Colchester Council has now confirmed to the Gazette it has pressed pause on the plans after outcry from the community.

A spokesman said: "Following feedback from the local community, we have decided to pause the removal of bike jumps at Iron Latch Wood.

“The council is committed to ongoing engagement and has been actively seeking input from all users of the woods. We have re-opened our survey as a result of the recent increased feedback, and those interested in getting involved can complete the survey.

"The survey includes a question where respondents can provide their contact details if they wish to be involved in future consultation from a mountain biking perspective."

The survey can be accessed here.

Rachel Woods, a parent of children who uses the site, said: "My sons are seven and four and they love using the site and so do I.

"They get to have a free, adventurous and outdoor experience in a beautiful woodland which every child should have the opportunity to.

"If the site is drastically altered or changed, it will be a huge loss to my children’s wellbeing, enjoyment and development like it would be for hundreds of other young people and adults in the local community.

"We ought to be proud of our parks and woodlands and encourage children to get into nature away from their screens. But the council is actively working to limit and close the places that allow for this. "

To sign the petition go to https://www.change.org/p/protect-halstead-woods-from-council-development.

Nature - people using their bikes in the woods (Image: Zara Elizabeth)