It’s great when you skate

A£127,000 skate park is to be launched next month in Runcorn. The facility, on The Glen in Palacefields, is aimed at skaters, BMX riders and scooter riders with the average age of users expected to be 12 years old, according to statistics compiled by Rampworx.

It features a climbing unit, BMX track and jogging path.

Funding was provided by a £75,000 WREN landfill tax grant, and Beechwood and Halton Lea local area forums which provided £25,627 and £26,700 from the Halton Borough Council capital playgrounds budget.

Works have included landscaping such as tree planting to make the area more pleasant for all ages.

A Halton Council spokesman said the project was prepared in consultation with residents.

It is hopedp the scheme will improvep the environment and give young people something to do and keep out of trouble.

Expertise was provided by Gravity Skateparks working with David Webster And Sons Ltd of Widnes.

The skate park is due to open at 1pm on Saturday, July 16, with the launch bash to include a BMX exhibition and skills workshop and a skate and display by Rampworx.

A professional team will be on hand to demonstrate tricks and skills such as McTwists, Ollies, nollies and mongofoots.

There will also be workshops with children, young people and their families.

The council spokesman said scooter riding has boomed in popularity because of the ease of access, with scooters selling for £20 in shops.

A scooter superstar guest is due to be announced nearer the launch date.

Cllr Ron Hignett (physical environment) said: “After consultation with the local community, we felt we needed to do something more for young people in this area.”