RESIDENTS are expected be able to enjoy a refurbished BMX track and new outdoor gym by the end of the year.

Winning designs for the refurbished BMX track and new outdoor gym were revealed today (Monday, September 28).

Earlier this month residents were given the opportunity to pick their favourite from a range of options for new facilities at Longbarn Lane Rec in South Reading.

It was after the council announced an overall £155,000 investment in the local community.

READ ALSO: Latest coronavirus figures for Reading.

Consultation letters encouraging people to cast their vote were sent to addresses in Longbarn Lane, Canterbury Road, Home Farm Close, Tavistock Road and Yelverton Road.

The winning design for the new outdoor gym was by The Great Outdoor Gym Company (option 1) which received 96 votes, just 14 more than the design by Fresh Air Fitness (option 2).

The scheme is designed to offer the opportunity for free and accessible exercise for all, promoting physical activity.

It boasts an Energy Spinning Bike which can charge a smart-phone and link to the Activate App to allow keep fit enthusiasts to track their own personal workout.

The council said the gym also benefits from a family zone and an inclusive zone which will enable everyone to make use of the equipment.

The outdoor gym can be used by all ages and abilities – benefitting from coloured floor markings, as well as large, colourful signage on equipment, wider seats and transfer handles for ease of use and wheelchair accessible equipment.

Work on the new outdoor gym is expected to begin in November and be complete by the end of 2020.

For the BMX track refurbishment, the design by Clark and Kent (option 2) received a total of 116 votes and was the clear winner ahead of the ForteTrailcapes design (option 1) which attracted 61 votes.

READ ALSO: How to celebrate Halloween during coronavirus, according to Fun 'n' Frolic.

The refurbished BMX track will enable all BMX riders, advanced, experienced or new, to be safe and have fun.

Reading Chronicle:

Work on the new track is also due to begin in November and riders should be able to enjoy it by the end of the year.

Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said: “At a time when keeping fit and healthy has never been more important, for both young and old, it is fantastic that Longbarn Lane Recreation Ground will benefit from a new outdoor gym and a refurbished BMX track.

"The fact that the winning designs have been selected by the local community itself makes it even more exciting, because it means they are invested in them.

"Work on both facilities will start shortly and I can’t wait to see them being enjoyed when complete!”