Kids get their skates on to clean up park
LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER
Linwood councillors have backed school children in their bid to clean up the town’s skatepark.
Pupils at Woodlands Primary School are keen to improve the condition of the facility in Brediland Road – a spot which has raised concern among elected members.
The children have already put plans in place to hold a litter pick at the skatepark at the beginning of November and elected members have said they will help in whatever way they can.
Councillor Scott Kerr said: “It is always hugely inspirational to see our youngsters wanting to do their bit for their community.
“I applaud the pupils at Woodlands Primary for taking on this project to clean up the skatepark, which should be a major asset for Linwood.
“However, at the moment it has been spoiled by incidents such as drinking and smoking as well as graffiti which is very disappointing.
“It certainly shouldn’t be seen as a no-go zone area and I hope the work the pupils are set to carry out can give the skatepark a new lease of life.
“I will be happy to support the pupils in anyway I can to achieve this.”
Councillor Audrey Doig has also offered her support to the pupils, while Councillor Jim Sheridan is hopeful of meeting them to see how he can help.
Councillor Sheridan added: “I understand the children has concerns about the skatepark and it is my intention to contact them and their teacher directly.
“I’m happy to meet the youngsters and the teacher to see how, as a local councillor, I can help.
“Ultimately, the skatepark is there for them, so we want it to be in a good state for them to use.”
While Councillor Sheridan admitted the skatepark is in need of some attention, he does not think it is beyond repair.
He added: “It’s not as bad as many would have you believe but there’s no doubt it needs a bit of TLC.
“I will be doing whatever I can within the council to make sure that can happen.”