Extreme thrills are open to all

6 November 2008

East Kent Mercury

THE opening of a new skate park in Deal was celebrated with a host of stunts and displays.

Council officials and funding partners watched in awe while youngsters demonstrated exactly what good use they will make of the new area, at Victoria Park.

Cllr Bernard Butcher, chairman of Dover District Council, formally opened the park and the ceremony was followed by competitions and demonstrations on the park's new concrete bowls, street plaza, jump wall and curved rails.

The ceremony was attended by Deal Mayor Cllr Bill Gardner and representatives from funding partners Kent County Council, Dover District Council, the Big Lottery Fund's Children's Play programme and the Government's Respect scheme.

District council spokesman Andy Steele explained that young skaters from SK8/Extreme Sports Group were consulted throughout the project and design workshops were held to encourage their involvement. Bryan Cope, chairman of the KCC local board, said: "This skate park will provide an exciting new facility for young people in Deal. We have worked closely with the area's youngsters to provide what they want."

Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC cabinet member for access and property management, added that the new area would provide a facility for future generations to enjoy.

He also thanked the youngsters for their involvement in the project.

"This excellent new facility is a superb example of how we are working with our partners in the community for the future of the area," he said. "We thank the local skaters who have worked with us developing this project, and look forward to further partnership working in our community as we develop and improve facilities for all."

The skate park is open to all ages and is free to use.