The Scooter Track at Bradbury Park continues to bring the park’s overall vision to fruition by offering a first of its kind hybrid active facility for all ages and levels.
The Scooter Track project is a 200m infinity loop that is innovative in its combination of two traditionally separate experiences – riders can either enjoy a linear experience cruising or revel in the various opportunities for tricks and obstacles as elements of pump track and skate park come to life with dips, moguls, jumps, splash puddles, vibration pads and more along the way. A focus on accessibility and inclusivity ensured the inclusion of overtaking lanes became a key feature enabling this choice, as riders of varying levels can bypass obstacles unmatched to their skill level.
A free-flowing geometry in harmony with site topography was a key requirement of the brief which led to substantial slope analysis being carried out. Allowing the track to sit naturally within the existing context of the park was the driver to working with the gentle crossfall of the land, thereby eradicating the need for walls and batters on site. Obstacles were strategically positioned in accordance with their compatibility with speed, gradient and safety.
Existing landscape features were incorporated into the design with the two mature gum trees at the western end of the course driving the geometry of the entire course. The trees’ alignment provided a centre line axis for the two major concrete ellipses, while the inclusion of significant existing trees within the design provided practical amenity at the ground plane, a sense of symmetry, balance and visual aesthetics.
The result is a sophisticated and integrated contribution to the community that favours a sustainable approach through the retention of existing trees, and the incorporation of waterwise and endemic species into the design.
“The Scooter Track is yet another step towards the client’s goal of transforming Bradbury Park into a hub for the community that offers space for recreation and active opportunities suitable for all ages.
Paul Prendergast
Associate Director
