The Alliance Homes Community Investment Team found the Whizzy Wheels cycle track on the Bournville was badly in need of a refresh and so thanks to a community call out and help through our social value contract arrangements we got this facility going again.
The Whizzy Wheels cycle track on the Bournville was originally created on a piece of unused land behind a local shopping area and it became a much loved and well used resource for children and families.
However, following a recent visit, by Alliance’s Community Investment Team and the team from Safe Stronger North Somerset VRU, they found that the area had considerably deteriorated over the years. The Community Investment Team decided to get the facility going again.
To get the facility back to its former glory, the team were able to draw on a number of resources. Alliance’s social value contract procurement arrangements meant that we were able to call on the resources of our suppliers, and we weren’t disappointed. Jones Building Group for donated staff time and they were able to ask Crown to provide the paint. We also received donations of materials from Clevedon Sawmill Wickes.
The team also put a local ‘DIY SOS’ and they were overwhelmed by the level of support they got from the local community. Over 60 people turned out to help, including the Neighbourhood Police team and Alliance’s own Home Improvements Contract Manager who joined on his 'Make A Difference' Volunteering Day.
With Whizzy Wheels now improved beyond its former glory, it’s back providing a safe space for children and families to enjoy active play and to learn to ride in a safe place.
The Safe Stronger North Somerset team are now hoping to use the space as a focal point for 'Bikeability' and bike marking events. They’re also looking to create a bike repair project where young people can be given the opportunity to have access to and maintain bikes that have been recovered by the Police.