Work under way on Albany’s new Youth Challenge Park boasting a ‘state-of-the-art’ pump track

Plans for a “state-of-the-art” pump track and a competition-ready skate park on Sanford Road are shifting into gear, with work starting this week on Albany’s new youth hub. Incorporating the existing skate park and playing field behind the PCYC, the Youth Challenge Park aims to provide a space for exercise, fun and social connection. The park is set to boast an all-abilities, six to eight-lane asphalt pump track for mountain bikers and BMX riders. It would be one of the biggest pump tracks in Australia and capable of hosting State competitions. The park will also feature a 2.1m-deep skate bowl, skills park, dirt jumps, a skate plaza, activity areas and spectator zones. Once completed, Youth Challenge Park will become the new home of the Albany Mountain Bike Club. City of Albany chief executive Andrew Sharpe said it was an exciting time for young people in Albany. “An area that offers our youth a place to hang out, catch up with friends, meet new people and share skills is a fantastic addition to our social structure and gives young people a reason to stay in Albany for longer,” he said. “The space also provides the City with another avenue to host events, workshops and activities on a much larger scale which will boost tourism and drive economic growth to the region.” The City secured more than $1.4 million in State and Federal government funding to develop the park. Construction is expected to finish by May 2021.