The new skate park on the village recreation ground in West End has opened, with local councillors being amongst the the first to hit the ramps on four-wheels.
Proposals for a skate park in West End were first put forward to West End Parish Council in October 2015, as enthusiastic local youngsters wanted a facility where they could use their skateboards, scooters and BMX bikes.
Ollie Henderson and Jamie Swanepoel delivered a presentation to the council, which was widely supported, however, time constraints and the enormous task of fund raising needed meant the project never getting off the ground.
Support for a skate park and providing new facilities for young people remained a priority for the Parish Council, and with Community Infrastructure Levy funding, the council was able to build the park on the rec, after consultations with villagers on where they would like to see the new facility built.
Commenting, Cllr. Adrian Page said:
“I am so pleased to be here to watch the guys enjoy the park now it’s finally open. It is some years since the parish council was approached by some young people who expressed a desire to have a skate park on their doorstep rather than travelling miles to enjoy their sport.
“The council has faced some major challenges in planning and other permissions to get this off the ground. But at the end of a strange year of cancelled community events, lockdowns and disappointment, this is a bit of good news for our residents.”
Pictured, West End Parish Council with Ollie and Jamie.
Photo credit: Woking News & Mail