South West region supports Newton Abbot BMX club

South West region has given its support to a BMX club in Newton Abbot.

South West region handed over the £1,000 cheque to Decoy BMX at its track in Decoy Country Park last month, with funds going towards new equipment for its young members.

Decoy BMX club is a non-profit, volunteer-run club, built in 1998. The track is open to everyone, no matter age or ability, with the club competing in regional contests but also riding just for fun, aided by British Cycling coaches.

Persimmon is bringing new homes to Newton Abbot at its nearby Langford Bridge site off Kingskerswell Road. The initial batch of 40 high-quality homes on the first phase of the development, Kings Meadow, will become available soon.

The development is zero-carbon ready, meaning homes are not powered by gas but ground-source heat pumps. They are also equipped with EV charging points and secure cycle storage.

The site, allocated in the local plan, helps meet Teignbridge District Council’s five-year housing land supply while addressing local housing needs, with eight properties being transferred to a local housing association.

The scheme will also see the delivery of a new bus route to serve the development, and a financial contribution will be made to assist in setting up the additional bus service. It also provides public open space and delivers significant biodiversity enhancements, with bird boxes installed and bat roosts provided adjacent to the site.

Persimmon has also demonstrated its commitment to the town elsewhere in Newton Abbot through its Community Champions scheme. Recent local recipients include Newton Abbot Museum, Dawlish Swimming Club, Newton Abbot College, and Buckland Athletic AFC.

Commenting, South West region Sales Director Stacey Harris, said:

“Persimmon is proud to continue our commitment to Newton Abbot with another Community Champions donation to a local group, underscoring our dedication to leaving a positive and lasting legacy in the areas in which we build.

“Decoy BMX's mission to provide a welcoming space for riders of all ages and abilities aligns perfectly with our values of inclusivity and community empowerment, and so we are very pleased to contribute to the club's efforts in providing new equipment for its young members, fostering a love for cycling and outdoor recreation.

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to Newton Abbot's thriving community, complementing our ongoing efforts through the Community Champions scheme to support local initiatives and organisations.”

Lee Kirby, Chairman of Decoy BMX added:

"Decoy BMX want to express our thanks to Persimmon for their generous donation. This support comes at a crucial time as we strive to enhance the experience for our young members with new equipment, which is why we have invested in new helmets for our members.

“Since our establishment in 1998, Decoy BMX has been a beacon of inclusivity, welcoming riders of all ages and abilities to our track in Decoy Country Park.

“We know Persimmon are active in Newton Abbot and have donated to other organisations here, so we are delighted they considered us for their Community Champions scheme.”