Guernsey skate park is given final approval

The association has built a number of temporary parks since 2002

Planners have given the final stamp of approval to the building of a skate park at Beau Sejour, in Guernsey.

Deputy Mike O'Hara, Culture and Leisure Minister and Guernsey X-treme Sports Association chairman, said he was "delighted" by the news.

Since 2002 the association has worked to get a permanent site while making use of temporary facilities.

The designers, Gravity Engineering Ltd, have consulted with local skaters and BMXers over the the finished park.

Paul De La Mare, Guernsey X-treme Sports Association committee member, said: "We are so pleased for the many youngsters who have been waiting so patiently over the years for this great news.

"The next steps are to fully price the park to determine the amount of funds that will be needed to complete it."

He said the group hoped island companies may help by offering their services in kind and discussions with some were already underway.

Deputy O'Hara thanked the States departments and officers who had been involved in the decision but pointed out "no States funding will be used to realise this project".

He said: "What we need now is for the community to get behind us to make this project work for the youth of the Island."

The playground currently on the site is due to move

The group has already been given £20,000 by former skater boarder Zef Eisenberg.

He said: "I know from my own days of skate boarding just how important it is to have this needed facility.

"I am really pleased to be able to put back something into the community which will provide years of enjoyment for many children.

The group hopes to have the park up and running by Easter 2011.