PLANS are being drawn up for a BMX park at Bishopdown after a group of young riders approached councillors asking for a facility in Salisbury.

The Freeride area, which would be a series of jumps and ramps specially designed for BMX bikes, is now being looked at in more detail after the council identified a piece of its land at the rear of Woodville Road.

Parks manager for Salisbury district council Reg Williams has met with the BMX enthusiasts and described them as "knowledgeable and well motivated with a keen desire for Salisbury to provide a top quality facility to match any others in the region".

Now the group must find a way of attracting funding for the project and begin consulting with nearby residents who may have objections to the park.

The facility will cost in the region of £15,500 and the riders hope to generate sponsorship from local companies in addition to attracting council funding.

Last Wednesday, the council's city area committee considered giving the riders a grant of £1,000 to get the park off the ground.

Councillors decided that more work needed to be done on the proposal before they could spend the money but said they look forward to receiving more detailed plans.

"This is an excellent project," said committee member Cllr Muriel Tomlinson.

"I don't think money will be a big problem, the only obstacle could be objections from local residents.

"It would make a lot of difference if this project has the support of the local community."

Cllr Paul Sample added: "This is an excellent idea and I hope it will go ahead.

"Young people in Salisbury need something like this and I believe it will be a big success."