27 January 2010

SKATE PARK DESIGN MUST INVOLVE USERS

"Skateboarders, BMX and scooter riders must be fully involved in the design of a skate park in the Valley Gardens" says Lib Dem PPC for Harrogate and Knaresborough, Claire Kelley.

Next week Harrogate Borough Council's Cabinet will decide whether to proceed with a park, but the report to the Cabinet proposes that only a small group of users will be involved in the design.

"When Phil Willis MP and I visited skate parks in Bradford recently, we were told how important it was that local users had a strong voice in the design. Some companies who design skate parks have extensive experience of consultation with users and I have urged the Council to ensure that this is a factor in deciding who will be awarded the contract to build the park" said Claire.

"I want young people to feel that this is THEIR skate park. Having a say in the design is a really important way of making sure they have that feeling of ownership" she continued.

NEWS RELEASE
Harrogate & Knaresborough Liberal Democrats

Contact: Claire Kelley, Parliamentary Spokesperson - 07806 781082