Evolution bike track opens to the public

The new bike track was officially opened today, Sunday 2 November, by the daughters of John Burt. John, who sadly passed away earlier this year, was Development Manager at North Ayrshire Leisure was instrumental in securing funding for the park.

Robert Paterson, Evolution's Park Manager said: "I worked closely with John, and all his hard work and dedication paid off and we now have the biggest outdoor skate park in the UK. Everyone at Evolution would like to thank Mrs Burt and the girls for all their help, and wish them all the best for the future."

The new park, constructed by Welsh Company Dragon Downhill, cost £70,000 and was funded by North Ayrshire’s Community Planning Partnership and Irvine Bay Regeneration Company. The track will now allow access to mountain, suspension, and trail bikes and is a valuable addition to Evolutions range of activities.

Inspector Ian Ness of Saltcoats Police said: "The bike track is a wonderful addition to existing leisure facilities available within the local area. I praise the hard work of Robert Paterson, park staff and the committee, in securing funding and organising the creation of a first class bike track which has already gained the praise of many local youths."

James Ledgerwood, Project Manager for Irvine Bay Regeneration Company said: “We are delighted to be involved in such a worthwhile project. Irvine Bay is a fantastic place to spend time, whether you are a resident, visitor, or thinking of moving to the area. The bike track is clearly a great addition to the existing facilities and plays an important part in the development of Irvine Bay as a place in which to live, work and play.”

The skate park has been operational for three years and is north Ayrshire's biggest youth diversion project with a membership of around 3,000. The park is supervised at all times and is open from 10am untill 10pm, weather permitting. The park facilities include a shop, kitchen, TV room, first aid, toilets and CCTV. The park caters for in-line skaters, skate boarders and BMX bikes.

For more information on the park, call 01294 607799 or check out the web-site at www.evolutionskatepark.co.uk