A wooden skatepark was provided in Southport in 2004. The popularity of the facility has been such that the park becomes far too crowded at peak times. Move forwards to 2015 and the wooden park has become an eyesore. The wood suffers damage from the weather, vandalism as well as from normal use and is too expensive to replace regularly, as was originally intended. The skatepark has now become a haven for anti-social behaviour and acts of violence where the skatepark user group have been targeted. At the same time the Council have introduced an anti-skateboarding bye-law to the town.

SOUTHPORT SKATEPARK PROJECT is the proposal for the construction of a world class concrete skatepark facility in Southport. A skatepark designed and constructed by the professional skatepark construction company of our choice, with design input from local skatepark users. The skatepark will provide a safe, secure and inclusive environment for skatepark users of all ages.

We wish to build not just "a skatepark". We wish to create a venue that will be of a standard to attract national and international events and competitions, which will bring much needed trade into Southport, as well as providing a world class facility for local skatepark users. To ensure this, we need a design that works, that is challenging enough for top professionals, but equally has elements that will enable a complete novice to start skateboarding/BMX/inline skating.

Southport seafront area has seen an influx of fast food outlets, pubs and shops over the last 10 years. Did you know that from 1978 – 1999 the Solid Surf Skatepark was situated on the site where the current Go-Kart track now stands on Marine Drive?

Skateparks are proven to increase health, well-being and community cohesion, whilst reducing social exclusion and anti-social behaviour. Our proposal to re-introduce a modern well designed skatepark to this area is intended to increase healthy recreational activities in this area.

SOUTHPORT SKATEPARK PROJECT has developed a proposal for a sustainable and well managed skatepark facility, in keeping with the ‘Local Plan For Sefton’ announced in February.

INTERESTED?

Then please not only sign this petition, but share it with your friends and family, get involved with the parks design and construction.

We the undersigned, petition Sefton Council to include SOUTHPORT SKATEPARK PROJECT in the forthcoming ‘Local Plan for Sefton’ with a view to providing a safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing environment for the town's skatepark users, that will enhance the town and be an asset to the wider community.

Follow SOUTHPORT SKATEPARK PROJECT on Facebook at:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Southport-Skatepark-Project-2014/718885261497169?fref=ts

and on Twitter@SouthportSkate