Bowl is just the start for skaters
EXTREME Sports lovers have finally got a skate park.
EXTREME Sports lovers have finally got a skate park.
Sunday 20 July marked the opening of the temporary park at the Bowl, and hopes of a permanent one seem closer to reality.
'Plans have been drawn, the next step is being granted permission,' said Deputy Mike O'Hara.
'Hopefully, this temporary one will highlight the island's talent in extreme sports and will help push for the permanent one quicker.'
The park was built using the ramps from Lib Jam that were left in storage and, according to Deputy O'Hara, it was a real team effort.
'Its definitely been a community effort.
'Lots of people came together to make this happen, from sponsorship to people giving up their own time to build it. The skaters have also been really helpful, sealing off the ramps and letting us know what is wanted and needed.'
Lots of people went down to support the skaters and BMX riders in their mission.
There is lots of talent out there and, just like the music scene needs a decent venue, so do extreme sports.
More than 50 people were using the ramps yesterday and it was proof that there is a big culture for it in Guernsey.
'There is no question that there are big things to come,' said Deputy O'Hara.
'This temporary one is just the start – the next step is getting planning permission and then raising the money for the cost.'
The proposed facility will cost around £400,000 to build and designs have been modelled on an award-winning park in Bournemouth.
Meanwhile, local skaters seem happy with the temporary location until the permanent one has been approved.
'I think the Bowl location is good,' said local skater Julian Cochrane.
'It gives kids something to do throughout the summer.
'It's been really busy every night – I have always seen about 30 people when I am here. But, yeah, the Bowl is a great temporary position. Plus, we built the park – so it's what we wanted.
'This set-up has now given us high hopes for the permanent one. Hopefully it will be made of concrete so they can't get rid of it.'