Youngsters flock to try out new Bradford on Avon Skatepark

More than 50 young people were seen using the new £250,000 skatepark at Poulton Park after it opened on Saturday afternoon (July 29).

Teenagers make use of the newly- opened skatepark at Bradford on Avon. Photo: Trevor Porter 70031-1 (Image: Trevor Porter)

A spokesperson for Bradford on Avon Town Council said: “The town council could not be more excited to announce that the new skatepark at Poulton Park is open as of this afternoon.

“Maverick Skateparks finished work on the skatepark this week – and it was signed off by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

“Lots of people have been part of this journey – too many to name here – so we’ll simply say a big thank you to everyone who’s helped make this happen.

“And make sure you save the date… we’re busy planning an official opening event for the skatepark on Saturday, 9 September. Thanks everyone – now go and have fun!”

The official opening from 12 noon to 4pm on September 9 will feature rider demonstrations, music, competitions and prizes.

High flying teenagers display their skills at the newly-opened Skatepark at Bradford on Avon. Photo: Trevor Porter 70031-3 (Image: Trevor Porter)

Work on the new skatepark began in May and was completed in time for the summer holiday break from school.

The new skatepark was built by Maverick Skateparks, concrete skatepark specialists based in Poole, Dorset.

The design was agreed at a meeting of the Bradford on Avon Town Council on March 7 following consultation with user groups.

The council and skatepark users worked closely with Maverick to plan the build which followed a huge fundraising effort by the local community.

It follows a campaign led by young people, the town council, SkateBoA, other individuals and local organisations.

Funds for the new skatepark were raised by SkateBoA, with donations from the town council, the BoA Preservation Trust, the Colonel Llewellen Palmer Educational Trust, residents and local businesses.

Maverick Skateparks concept design for the Bradford on Avon Skatepark. (Image: Maverick Design)

Now that it’s built, the skatepark will be added to the town council’s insurance policy. The skatepark design includes engineered elements for drainage.

The skatepark is expected to attract youngsters of all ages using skateboards, scooters, and BMX bikes.

It forms part of a long-term plan to breathe new life into Poulton Park and make it more attractive to users.

Earlier this year, around 70 members of the local community helped to plant more than 1,000 trees at Poulton Park as part of a transformation plan.

Maverick has also designed and built skateparks in nearby Warminster, Midsomer Norton, Peasedown St John and Shepton Mallet.