Criterian

The Criterion Circuit.

That was.

Over twenty years ago, our Council (under pressure from their sports officer, a keen cyclist) built what they called:  A “Criterion Circuit”.   At that time we were desperately in need of some safe cycling routes for the masses.   But, they went ahead at great cost, and built their circuit in Victoria Park.  It is probably about 1km long. 

       It was also a footway!  

      With much publicity an event comprising a series of races was announced to celebrate the opening of the circuit.   The event took place, but as a public park it was not possible to keep the public away from wandering on the circuit, etc.  Health and Safety issues were razed.   No further cycling event has ever been run on this circuit since it was opened all those years ago.

      At one stage of the circuit, believe it or not, the Criterion track burst through some trees and shrubs turned a sharp corner and then ran across a basket-ball pitch, from one corner right across to opposite corner!  

       Just in case you don’t believe me, here is a recent picture:-

Like so.

   and yes! It is still there (or it was in April 2014)!  Though, as far as one can make out, the Basket-Ball court’s markings seem to have worn away with time, but the baskets hoops and back-board are  still there..

An earlier view from the opposite direction when the markings were still in place.

What a waste of money.

How stupid!