The figures have been added up, calculations done, numbers crunched, and we're thrilled to report that our RampUP sessions reached more than 4,000 children and young people across Barnsley this year.
In total, 4,046 children and young people entered the RampUP Zone, a relaxed and informal space which took a range of multi-purpose, portable street ramps for all abilities from beginner to expert around our schools, parks and greenspaces.
Officially launched in July during Barnsley's Big Weekend, RampUP was delivered by our Sport and Active Recreation team for young people to get active and enjoy cycling and scooting for fun.
They initially took the sessions into schools to support pre-existing active travel work and prepare for the summer events. To date, 78 sessions have been delivered at 33 schools across the borough, helping to explore the benefits of active travel.
It's hoped that the positive and exciting experiences RampUP provided will encourage more children and young people to get cycling and scooting regularly and consider travelling actively to school or around their local community.
Councillor James Higginbottom, Cabinet spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said: "The participation figures for RampUP are fantastic and reflect the incredibly positive feedback we received at the sessions throughout the year from children, young people, parents and teachers alike.
"I'd like to thank our Sport and Physical Activity team, who worked hard to deliver the sessions across the borough in our schools and as part of our programme of free summer holiday activities, as well as the Area Councils who helped to facilitate them. It was great to hear that some of the attendees at these events recognised the team from the school events.
"We know that staying active is vital for our physical and mental wellbeing, so to see so many children and young people getting involved is amazing. I hope this innovative way of engaging them in cycling and scooter use leads to a growing interest in sport and physical activity both now and when they're older.
"We're continuing to invest in active travel so that it is at the heart of our communities, allowing people to walk and cycle on our fantastic network of off-road routes more frequently and to help support our ambition of a cleaner, greener and more sustainable Barnsley."
Ed Clancy, South Yorkshire’s Active Travel Commissioner, added: “The RampUP project makes the benefits of cycling and scooting clear to see - it's fast, fun and brings kids the freedom to explore and connect with family and friends.
“It’s also important because it helps to build confidence in active travel from a young age, encouraging activity and inclusivity, that can ultimately contribute to healthier lives and a better future.
“The reach and reception of RampUP is testament to the brilliant team in Barnsley that are behind it. I’m looking forward to seeing RampUP’s success continue on its return.”
RampUP will return in 2024, visiting more of our schools and communities. If you'd like your school to be involved in RampUP for 2024, please email schoolsactivetravel@barnsley.gov.uk.
