Skaters closer to gaining new facilities

THE vision for a new St Leonards skate park has been released for public comment after years of skaters rallying for better facilities.

Skaters will be one step closer to accessing a state-of-the-art Skate Park and Recreation Hub which will be located at McLeod Street.

The new development will be suited to beginner skaters, scooters and BMX riders as well as challenging advanced riders to undertake more technical tricks.

Additional features will include a resurfaced court with markings for netball and basketball, green space, sheltered seating as well as identified opportunities for low-level sports such as fitness playgrounds, table tennis and hopscotch.

Project confirmation came in early May following years of residents lobbying for upgraded skating facilities in the coastal town.

Thirteen-year-old Ethan Coleman formed a petition at the beginning of the year which quickly attracted more than 250 signatures and gained the support of Bellarine MP Lisa Neville and Federal MP Libby Coker.

Previously the park featured a couple of rails and uneven bitumen that left kids unenthusiastic about skating and too far from surrounding facilities located at Drysdale and Portarlington, according to Ethan.

The plight for a new skatepark has been a four-year battle for locals with an initial petition being lodged by fellow resident Jyals Maloney.

Mayor Stephanie Asher thanked the community for its ongoing passion in pursuing an upgraded skate park for the area.

“We want to see this recreational hub meet the needs and vision of the community, so it can become a space for everyone to enjoy,” she said.

Cr Asher said the draft design shows potential to significantly benefit the lives of young people living and holidaying in the St Leonards area.

“Physical activity is so important for all ages, but particularly for our young people in the region,” she said.

“I’d like to thank the St Leonards’ community for its dedication in advocating for upgrades at this skate park. I look forward to seeing this draft concept design come to life.”

The council has included $30,000 in the 2020-2021 budget towards the design of the redevelopment with further money to be allocated in the following budget.

To submit your feedback on the design head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/STLSP prior to 4pm on Friday, January 22, 2021.