After strong representations to ensure Riverside was included in the initial catchment for the Todmorden Town Deal Fund bid, and 18 months of feasibility work to present and revise an acceptable bid, we have finally heard the fantastic news that we have been successful in our individual bid.

Along with the ‘all ability’ cycling charity EMpowered People, who will be using the site as a training base, we have around £1m investment potential already.

Peter Hirst, Community development director for the UCVR, owners of the site, said “We are absolutely delighted that all this hard work has paid off.

“Riverside will be able to offer so many more facilities and activities to the whole community instead of the limited user activities we inherited. This means that as an activity and learning centre it can become self-sufficient”.

The UCVR and EMpowered People have to provide a full business case by August 2022 to draw down the funding over the next three years.

Peter Hirst added, “Not only will we draw on this fund, but it allows us the opportunity to lever in significant funding from other sources.”

Simon Lord, founder of EMpowered People, said “Riverside will enable people with disabilities to come and enjoy the benefits of inclusive cycling in a relaxing environment.”