A fundraising drive to build a skate park is to be launched by South Woodham skateboarders and the town's youth council.

As numbers of youngsters pursuing the sport increase in the area, parts of the town centre have been favoured for skating.

But complaints have been made about pedestrian safety.

Two years ago a half pipe ramp was installed by Chelmsford Borough Council at Compass Gardens, but more additional facilities are now being called for.

Youth council chairman Kris Talikowski said: "The facility has been well used, however there is only enough space for two skateboarders at one time on the half-pipe ramp.

"Since then the number of skateboarders has increased to about 80 and therefore there is a desperate need for a new skate park to attract the majority of skateboarders away from the town centre and over to a new skating facility next to the existing ramp."

So far £800 has been raised and the town council has pledged £2,500, but there is still a long way to go in generating the full amount needed.

"We knew that the total cost for the equipment was between £12,000 and £15,000 which means that the youth council and the skaters will have to be very determined to reach this target," said Kris.

Sgt Andy Cullers, of South Woodham police, said in theory the proposal was good: "It's a fantastic idea, and we totally support it, but for it to really be used by all it would need to have some form of shelter, lighting and provision for food and drink," he said.

But while plans for shelters are in place, at present lighting looks unlikely due to the expense and absence of electricity cables in the area.

So far, fundraising ideas including a skating competition at the ramp and a skate night have been organised, along with plans to gain sponsorship from businesses.

A Skate Aid Awareness video is also being made, which the youth council will present to the borough council soon in the hope of gaining additional funding.

Cash appeal: Skateboarders and bikers, with Kris Talikowski (front) who are calling for more facilities, gather at the half-pipe.

By Katy Fisher

Reporter's e-mail: katy.fisher@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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