Work on new Openshaw community cycling facility gets underway

Work on a brand-new community cycling facility has gotten underway at Openshaw’s Delamere Park.

The project has come about thanks to the vision and campaign of a local family who want to create a safe and joyful space for children in memory of Max Rimmer-Chambers, who tragically passed away at the age of four.

Max adored riding bikes, scooters, and anything with wheels around Delamere Park, and his legacy now inspires a project that will bring joy to generations.

The MaxTrax track has been designed with input from local families, schools, and residents, and will feature:

• A purpose-built pump track for all ages and abilities

• Expert coaching sessions and cycling education

• A repair workshop and maintenance cabins

• Inclusive design for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and scooters

Kerrie Rimmer, mum of Max said: “Knowing Max’s love for adventure and wheels, we wanted to create a space that reflects his spirit – a place where children can be free, active, and safe. MaxTrax is our gift to the community, built with love and hope.”

A spade-in-the-ground event on Mon 15 Sep marked the official beginning of construction. The project has been made possible through the dedication of Max’s family, led by his mother Kerrie Rimmer and father Colin Chambers.

They have raised an incredible amount of money through various fundraising events, a Crowdfunding campaign and external grants along with a successful application to British Cycling’s Places to Ride Fund, an event legacy programme set out to address inequalities in participation and create new opportunities for under-represented groups in cycling.

Manchester City Council has invested £166k of capital funding to match the amount raised by the campaign and along with the support of partners, Manchester Active, Step Up MCR, Access Sport, Landscape Architect Elsie Josland, and specialist track builders VeloSolutions, the MaxTrax dream has been made possible.

Cllr Lee Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods said:  “Delamere Park sits at the heart of the Openshaw community, and the new Max Trax cycle hub will be a wonderful addition to this vibrant neighbourhood.

“This project demonstrates the strength of community spirit and the love shared for Max, whose memory continues to inspire such meaningful change. By creating a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space for cycling and recreation, we are not only honouring Max’s passion for cycling but also providing lasting opportunities for residents to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles. Manchester City Council is proud to support Kerrie, Colin and Max Trax.”