Work to build a skate park in Maryport is due to begin this month.
Construction expert Bendcrete Leisure Limited has been appointed to build a new skatepark on the Promenade. It will be to the south of what is currently a disused toilet block that is destined to become a new café.
Workers are set to move in on September 9.
Bendcrete is designing the new site using a wish list from the town’s skating and BMX-riding communities which includes ramps, ledges, boxes and rails.
The Skatepark for Maryport panel of local people of all ages was set up so their knowledge of skating and biking could decide the priorities for the new facility.
Specialist companies which applied for the skatepark tender were asked to create a space which will be suitable for all sorts of wheeled sports, particularly skateboards, scooters, skates and BMXs.
They were asked to make the design unique to Maryport and to ensure it is laid out so that people can skate together, regardless of their level of expertise.
This is a fully funded standalone scheme but has been designed to allow for future expansion. The materials used, mainly reinforced concrete for the skating surfaces and robust steel seating, will be chosen to withstand the coastal environment.
The project is being managed by Cumberland Council.
Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer, said: “We said in the tender documents that we wanted a flexible and inclusive space where the young people of Maryport could have a sense of ownership.
“Lots of consultation has taken place with future users of the skatepark to make sure this is a facility they can really use – rather than giving them something designed by people who have never set foot on a skateboard or BMX.
“This, combined with the other Promenade improvements, and the new splashpark, adventure playground and event space on the harbourside, will make Maryport’s waterfront an even better place to be.”
The project is being paid for using Government funding which is also enabling other projects across the town. In total, Maryport is currently undergoing more than £12 million of regeneration work.
