Mum and son’s skate park bid

A mum and son are working with Long Sutton Parish Council on a potential new skate park for the town.

Jake Bracken and his mum Heidi are leading the calls to have a cement stake park created for the town.
The idea is to replace the current facilities in the park.
The pair said in a statement: “We think that a purpose built skate/scooter/BMX park in Long Sutton would be a fantastic asset to the local community.
“We currently have a metal ramp, a rail edge and a box at one of our parks… it’s very well made and I’m sure a thrill to ride the ramp, but what we are proposing is a purpose built concrete park that will have smooth, free flowing shapes and curves suitable for all abilities and ages.
“It will last for decades with minimal maintenance. It would be much quieter than a metal ramp… the smoother, the more silent.
“Skateboarding/scooting and BMXing are wonderful accessible sports that do not cost a fortune to get into and encourage movement and exercise through fun and play.”
Heidi added: “We have the permission to go ahead from the parish council. We are now nearly at the stage to liaise skatepark builders and are looking at funding options. The skate area is not as well used as it could be, it is certainly a hang out, but needs some updating to really attract youngsters to give skateboarding, scooting and BMXing a go.
“Jake hopes it will become a meeting place to share skills, achieve goals and generally have a good time.”
A spokesman for Long Sutton Parish Council said: “The council is supporting a local group initiative to revamp the existing skate park and update it to a concrete version which is much more user friendly and seating will also be incorporated.
“Whilst the town has experienced anti-social behaviour in recent months this has now subsided. The council feels the majority of young people in the town should not be denied better facilities because of the behaviour of a few.
“It is hoped that residents will support the venture and help invest in our young people and create a positive environment for them.
“The council has spoken to youngsters and they are all very positive.
“The venture will no doubt raise concerns from those living in the vicinity of the Cinder Ash Park but the council assures them that it will be properly managed by the security contractors and will reduce noise levels.
“There will be no illumination of the skate park area to encourage late night use.”