Shinfield children get new bike riding space

Children in Shinfield will have a new place to ride their bikes, after the University of Reading worked with Shinfield Parish Council to agree a temporary facility.

The top corner of The Manor Field, off Brookers Hill, is now open for children to enjoy for the remainder of August and until the end of October half-term (Sunday 1 November). The licence was agreed by the council's Facilities Committee this month, giving families a free, ready-to-use space on their doorstep, at no cost to book and no cost to the council.

Organisers expect that the area will develop naturally as children use it, with riders wearing in their own lines and jumps over time.

Molli Cleaver, Community Engagement Manager at the University of Reading, said: "We're thrilled to be able to offer this space for local children to enjoy in a new and exciting way. It's a great example of how the University's land can be put to good use for the benefit of our neighbours in Shinfield."

Cllr Brett Johnson, Chair of the Facilities Committee at Shinfield Parish Council, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for local children to get outside and have fun on their doorstep. We're grateful to the University of Reading for making this happen, and we're looking forward to seeing the space come to life."

Access is on foot from the Manor Ground sports facility, no parking is available. Riders are asked to stay within the marked area and keep off the adjoining pitches and cricket square, which damage easily. The site is not supervised or inspected, so families are asked to ride at their own risk, with helmets expected and younger children accompanied by an adult. Only pedal bikes are permitted, and riders are reminded to take litter home, keep gates shut, keep the footpath clear and be respectful of nearby neighbours. Further information is available on the Shinfield Parish Council website and Facebook page.

Residents with questions, or concerns about damage or safety, can contact Shinfield Parish Council.