Skatepark ramps up designs
Users and residents buy into move
Early designs for moving the Whitby Skatepark appear to be satisfying skateboarders and residents.
Northern ward Porirua city councillor Anita Baker says user groups have been established and consulted on the draft designs.
A recent Kapi- Mana News editorial expressed concerns whether Whitby skateboarders would be given meaningful input on the new park, after Foodstuffs took on responsibility for the project.
It is going to build a 3000-square-metre New World supermarket next to Adventure Park, requiring the current skatepark to be modified or moved.
The preference of Foodstuffs, skatepark users and the council is for the latter.
Ms Baker says a few skateboarders contacted her after the article, but she had met most of them before, and so far they were happy with the plans.
‘‘They have asked for a certain designer, and that is the one we’re going with.
‘They are not getting everything they want but it is a bigger area than the current skatepark.’’
The preferred site for the new skatepark is 700- square- metres of reserve land further north on Discovery Dr, near the roadside below the Starboard Lane turnoff and Samuel Marsden College. The skatepark and adjoining basketball half- court is expected to be moved within the next two years at a cost of about $150,000.
The response of Whitby Residents Association members, except one, has been positive, Ms Baker says.
The location gets the skatepark away from most residents, it is visible from the road and there will be no vehicle access.
‘‘The cars were the biggest problem with the old skatepark.’’
Prospective buyers of property on Flotilla Place, part of Whitby Sections’ ‘‘ Dress Circle’’ residential development, will be informed of the skatepark’s relocation.
The next public meeting to discuss designs and progress of the skatepark will be at St Mary’s Church on May 15, 7pm.
Any skateboarders, BMX and scooter riders who want their views taken on board are encouraged to attend.