Commonwealth Games cash to help pay for new Templeton Woods bike trail

A mountain bike skills trail is to be created in Templeton Woods.

It will be connected to the Green Circular cycle route that goes around the city and will be aimed at cyclists who want to improve their technique for more challenging rides.

City councillors will be asked to approve the project on Monday.

It will cost £63,500, with £27,500 of that coming from a fund set up to provide a sports and fitness legacy from next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The council has been looking at sites for such a trail for several years and it reckons the woods are the best location. A plantation has been chosen as it will have the least impact on other visitors.

Environment convener Craig Melville said: “This is an excellent idea and one I am sure will capture the imagination of cyclists.

“It would be designed to help bikers build up their confidence so that they can then tackle tougher challenges.

“But the trail would also be a great place for families to get active and keep fit and healthy.

“This would be a great addition to the range of activities that people are able to take part in at green spaces around Dundee.”