Improvements to the pump track at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre
We will be upgrading the pump track at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre from 16 November 2026
This page provides more information about the work we are doing and why.
What is the pump track?
Our pump track is one of the most popular parts of the Cycle Centre (in July over 17,000 runs were counted on it). It is a short loop with rollers and berms designed to be ridden continuously without pedalling by pumping to maintain momentum. Pump tracks are great for developing skills and improving your technique whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
The pump track is located on the way out to the main trails beside the Blue Skills Area.
What work is being done?
We've secured funding from Sport England to build a brand-new all-weather pump track, which will replace the existing track. Work is due to start on 16 November, and will be carried out by the experts at On Track.
The new asphalt surface will be suitable to ride in all weather conditions, with low rolling resistance (requiring less energy and effort to keep rolling forward) and maximum traction (better grip between your tyre and the track).
The new track will also follow a new layout, including moving the start mound to create more space for waiting for your turn and watching the rest of your group ride.
When will the work be finished?
We expect the work to take four to five weeks to complete. Work can take some time and may have to be paused due to the many constraints that we have to work around.
We will be planning a launch event for the new pump track once the work has completed. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest information.
Can I still visit the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre?
Yes, the Cycle Centre will be open during these works. There may be closures at certain times, so we recommend you check our trail status page for up-to-date information.
The most important thing for us is to keep the public, our staff, and contractors safe. The pump track and surrounding area will all be fenced off whilst the work takes place. The link trail behind the bike hire yard may be closed and diverted at certain stages of the work. Keep an eye on our social media channels for the latest work updates.
How has the work been funded?
This work has been made possible in partnership with Sport England with National Lottery funding.
This funding will also be used to improve the link connecting Beechenhurst with the Colliers Trail and the Cycle Centre. The top section of this trail (running through the car park at Beechenhurst) will be made wider and more accessible, with improved signage to make the route clearer.
Are you cutting down any trees?
No, we have already felled the small number of trees around the pump track required for this work. The red marks you might still see on standing trees are from the surveying that was carried out prior to the felling work.
Why choose asphalt in a forest environment?
Asphalt is harder wearing, lower maintenance and longer lasting then traditional dirt pump tracks. Much like how some of our car parks and roads are tarmacked, sometimes the best material to reduce wear on the environment is a more artificial one such as asphalt. An asphalt surface is also designed to work with all wheels, and in all weather conditions, providing a smooth yet grippy surface with very little rolling resistance.
Will a tarmac surface cause more injuries?
Asphalt is an industry standard for pump tracks, creating a smooth surface perfect for rolling over. Whilst asphalt might seem like a harder surface, the current dirt pump track has a hard layer of surface rocks which are just as likely to cause an injury during a fall.
Won't asphalt heat up in hotter weather?
Whilst the dark colour of asphalt can absorb and radiate heat during hot days, the pump track will be nestled in amongst the shade of the trees, protecting it from the hottest hours of the day.
Are there any alternative options similar to the pump track?
Whilst the pump track is out of action, there are a number of alternatives that you can enjoy at the Cycle Centre:
- Our green-graded Beginner Skills Area is located just over the bridge on the Colliers Trail
- Our green-graded Old Bob's Trail can be found a little further along from the pump track