New facilities at Stratford Skate Park

The new facilities at Stratford Skate Park are now fully operational and open for use and will be officially opened on Monday 24 October at 11am.

The 3 new pre-cast concrete ramps (Jump Box, Pyramid with Ledge and Curb Table Comb) costing over £20,000 have been installed at Stratford Skate Park.

Following a lively public meeting in July 2010 a steering group made up of young people and parents from the Stratford Town area started the 'Save the Stratford Skate Park Appeal'. The aim of the group was to raise funds to replace the old equipment that had reached the end of its useful life.

The group supported by local Ward Member Cllr Kate Rolfe submitted a funding application to Stratford Town Trust in March 2011 and were successful in being awarded £15,000. The group also raised funds by organising a series of skating competitions and jamming events at the Skate Park.

The steering group and specifically the young people have been nominated by the District Council for a 'Big Society Award' under the Empowering Communities criteria in recognition of their dedication and commitment to helping shape their community.

Cllr Mike Brain, Technical Services Portfolio says: “One of the biggest challenges that Local Government faces today is how to meaningfully engage children and young people to get them involved in the political process which in turn allows them to shape and influence the services they receive. The 'Save Stratford Skate Park' group is one example where young people have had there voices heard loud and clear. 

“The new Stratford Skate Park is once again one the biggest free skate park in the West Midlands and has a reputation amongst users for providing a challenging skating experience".

The original skate park located at the back of Stratford Leisure Centre was opened in 1994 and in June 2009 the old wooden skate park facility was removed following an independent assessment condemning it.

The new equipment installed has an expected lifespan of 15 years.