Have your say on skatepark plans for Wellingborough

Residents are being asked for their views on plans for a new skatepark.

Wellingborough Council has unveiled its new proposed skatepark design for Bassett’s Park that will be delivered in collaboration with Bendcrete Skateparks Ltd.

Skateboarding is enjoyed by all ages and is now recognised as an Olympic sport so the authority is hoping to provide a new facility in the town.

They are looking at having the new skatepark in Bassett’s Park so it would be easy access for people from all areas of Wellingborough.

The park currently has a small skate park, but it needs major updating and repair.

It is currently located at the back of the park where it cannot be seen, is near houses and a school and has no lighting.

The council is proposing to re-locate this skatepark to a more visible area of the park for natural surveillance, away from the houses and the school and to a more suitable area towards Westfield Road nearer the existing play area.

The existing skatepark would be removed and replaced with grass for additional recreational space.

Bendcrete have designed the new skatepark having consulted with local skaters, but the council wants to hear from anyone interested in the new facility for their views on the proposed design.

These comments will be used to inform the final proposed design that will then be submitted as a planning application by Bendcrete.

Residents will also have the opportunity to consider the scheme, proposed design and location and comment on the application.

As well as the skatepark there are various other improvements that are being made to Bassett’s Park including:

- Additional junior play equipment as the play value for this age group is very limited, this will give children more equipment to play on

- New safety surfacing in the smaller children’s play area, as the current surfacing under the multi-play units has worn out with an additional piece of play equipment to be installed to

add to the play value

- Exercise equipment for all to use, to encourage good health and well-being for all

- The street furniture will be replaced where required and fences will be improved and repaired where needed to make the park more modern, fresh and applying to all

Council leader Martin Griffiths said: “I’m proud that we are continuing to invest in our parks and recreational spaces and are providing good facilities for those making use of our

valuable open space.

“It’s helpful to hear from residents of all ages about what they think of the proposals so that we can do our best to provide what’s needed.

“I’m sure that the skatepark will be a popular facility improving the fitness and well-being of those using it, something that is particularly important in these challenging times."

The plans for the proposed facility can be viewed on the council’s website by clicking here.

As well as this consultation, formal planning permission will also be sought.

All comments must be submitted by 5pm on January 31, 2021, to [email protected].

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