Bradford's indoor solution to noisy skateboards (From Wiltshire Times)

Bradford's indoor solution to noisy skateboards

10:00am Sunday 10th February 2013 in Latest News By Katie Smith

Skateboarders disturbing the peace for residents in Bradford on Avon have been given a new place to practise their skills.

Following reports of a group of skateboarders in Kingston Mills, town police and Kath Brownlee, the town’s youth development coordinator, joined forces.

Bradford on Avon’s street-based team of police and youth workers found out what skateboarders wanted, and offered them the hall at the Youth Centre off Frome Road.

Mrs Brownlee said: “We wanted to provide a safe and warm environment for them to skate. Although it is just the hall at the moment, people can get involved in fundraising to buy more equipment and ramps and we could eventually expand outside. It is their space and we are open to what young people want to do.

“It is nice, the hall is being used for something they have a specific interest in.

“Although we are in the early stages, there has been a good atmosphere and people are enjoying themselves.”

Anyone aged 13 to 19 can skate and use the free youth club, which is next to Fitzmaurice School, every Tuesday and Thursday, from 6.30pm to 9pm.

Refreshments are served and people can also get involved in art, cooking and playing pool. Skateboarders can also use the hall on Fridays between 7.30- 8.15pm.

Mrs Brownlee said: “We are hoping to get their help to develop the Poulton skate area, which has raised concerns among young people.

“It is in need of updating and, depending on the funds raised, we will either repaint the equipment or take it out and buy new.”

PC Martin Annetts said: “Early interaction from local police with the lads established that they perceived there was a lack of skateboarding facilities. They obviously did not fully understand that complaints were being made.

“Parents were visited and put in touch with each other so they knew the whole facts and were satisfied that the police were offering productive suggestions and directions.”