Skipton residents inspired by the Olympic debut of skateboarding in Tokyo next year will have a local bowl to practice in.
Planning has started for a skate park at Jubilee Park and the project is expected to be finished by June 2021. The design will be suitable for beginner to intermediate level skateboarding and other wheel sports.
Corangamite Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Andrew Mason said the project was being developed in response to a recognised need, illustrated by a petition with more than 120 signatures.
“The Lions Club of Skipton Skate Park Sub-Committee have done some fantastic work raising funds through raffles and barbecue fundraisers,” he said.
“Council has allocated $20,000 in the 2020-2021 Budget for the design phase.
“We have also sourced $120,000 through the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program for construction.
“Another $50,000 has been raised by the community, including generous contributions from the Goldwind—Stockyard Hill Wind Farm and the Skipton Community Shop, businesses and individuals.”
Mr Mason said the skate park reflected Council’s commitment to the safety, health and wellbeing of our communities.
“When we were developing the new SYNC youth strategy, the top issues our young people raised were needing more social connection and a wider range of physical fitness opportunities,” Mr Mason said.
“This project will improve those opportunities for the young people of Skipton.”
Stakeholder and community engagement will take place throughout the design process. The engagement will be through stakeholders and online community workshops. There will also be consultation videos and online surveys.
The sub-committee can be contacted through their Facebook page Skatepark 4 Skipton
