DDC Press Release *********
STATE-OF-THE-ART SKATE PARK LAUNCHED IN DEAL
An exciting new state-of-the-art skate park is officially launched in Victoria Park in Deal on Thursday (30 October) - with competitions and demonstrations, and the chance to try out the major new facilities designed for skateboarding, BMX and in-line skating.
The official opening is at 1.45pm, followed by events from 2pm to 6pm, delivered in association with Revolution Skate Park. Activities are open to participants of all ages and abilities, but important safety guidelines must be followed, and an entry form must be completed. Entry forms are available at locations across the district, (or see below).
This major new facility in Deal features concrete bowls and a 'street plaza' with features including a jump wall and curved rails.
The new skate park follows partnership working between Dover District Council and Kent County Council, working with local young people and the Dover District Youth Forum, and extensive consultation with partners in the community on design and location. Design workshops were held with key stakeholders last summer, and local skaters SK8/Extreme Sports Group have been involved throughout the project design.
Funding for the scheme has come from Kent County Council Local Board, the Big Lottery Fund's Children's Play programme, Respect funding from Central Government, and Dover District Council. Representatives from key partners have been invited to the launch and the park will be officially opened by Cllr Bernard Butcher, Chairman of DDC.
Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC Cabinet Member for Access and Property Management, said: "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. 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."
Big Lottery Fund Head of South East region, Alison Rowe, said: "I am delighted that the Deal Skate Park project is now up and ready to go. This project is an excellent example of how BIG's Children's Play programme is providing free and inclusive play opportunities for youngsters across Kent."
Chairman of KCC Dover Local Board Bryan Cope 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. KCC Dover Local Board is pleased to be associated with such an important community project as this."
For more information, or for an entry form to participate on the day, please contact DDC on (01304) 872448 or log onto
www.dover.gov.uk 