Newton Aycliffe skate park receives £20,000 revamp (From The Advertiser Series)

Newton Aycliffe skate park receives £20,000 revamp

3:24pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in News

A POPULAR skate park has reopened following a £20,000 makeover.

The skate park, in Newton Aycliffe Town Park, has been revamped and extended after young people in the town requested more challenging equipment.

And now, thanks to Great Aycliffe and Middrige Area Action Partnership (GAMP), the youngsters can hone their skills on a new quarter pipe, street spine and fun box combination.

Councillor Joan Grey, who donated money from her Neighbourhood budget to fund the project, along with fellow Durham County councillors Sarah Iveson, Mike Dixon, John Moran and Paul Gittins, said it was important to support projects that benefit young people.

“When we went out to consultation this was one of the projects the children had put forward themselves,” she added.

“It is already well-used and I am sure the improvements will encourage even more youngsters to make the most of the facility.”

Created in 2004 as part of the Town Park redevelopment, the skate park is looked after by Great Aycliffe Town Council and attracts young children and teenagers alike.

The extension follows a series of successful skateboarding competitions last year, which were funded by GAMP and organised by One Point youth workers.

Councillor Brian Hall, Chairman of Great Aycliffe Town Council’s recreation committee and chair of GAMP, said: “We are delighted to be able to extend and enhance the existing skate park facility, working in partnership with GAMP and Durham County Council elected members”