City skateboard park plans probed

Wheeled sports are increasing in popularity

A local consultation into plans to create a £750,000 outdoor skatepark at Edinburgh's Saughton Park has been launched.

The park would be developed by Edinburgh City Council in tandem with other new sports facilities and as part of the redevelopment of a play park.

Edinburgh sports leader Deidre Brock said the capital needed an outdoor skate arena.

The proposed site is east of an existing play area near Balgreen Road.

Councillor Brock said: "Edinburgh's skateboarders are a fantastic group of people who are as passionate about their sport as any golfer, swimmer or footballer and I am convinced that a new outdoor skate facility at Saughton Park would be a valuable asset for the city.

It is vitally important that this city provides as many opportunities as possible for people to stay active whatever their age or interests Deidre Brock Edinburgh City Council

"We've made contact with many local organisations and individuals and the idea seems to be going down very well.

"Saughton Park is a key sporting centre for the city and a skatepark would be a great addition to what is already on offer.

"It is vitally important that this city provides as many opportunities as possible for people to stay active whatever their age or interests."

An outdoor skatepark has been long sought after by Edinburgh youngsters and the development of a facility has been part of the Youngedinburgh Action Plan since 2001.

'Perfect spot'

Edinburgh Skatepark Project (ESP) was established in 2001 to represent Edinburgh's skaters and campaign for skate facilities in the city.

Saughton Park currently has several grass football pitches, an enclosed running track and play area and a new all weather "third generation" full-size pitch and sevens area is currently being installed.

Council officials said early ground condition surveys had shown the site could be "the perfect spot" for a new skate park.

Dave Sowerby, who designed the new indoor facility at Ocean Terminal, has also been involved in the plans for an outdoor skatepark for the city.