City of Bayswater to reinstate skate park advisory committee

A SKATE park advisory committee will be reinstated by the City of Bayswater, in a bid to maintain existing and establish future skate parks.

In the early 2000s, a skate park management committee was established, however it was later folded.

At last month’s council meeting, the council supported councillor Stephanie Gray’s motion which requested chief executive Andrew Brien reinstate the committee, comprising of councillors, officers and youth community members.

There are currently two skate parks in the City, those being at Wotton and Crimea Reserves.

A small BMX track was developed at Lightning Park in Noranda in 2011.

In June, the council decided to investigate the feasibility of a possible BMX cycle track at Hinds Reserve in Bayswater.

Cr Gray said the City was developing a public open space and play space strategy which would include skate parks, so it was the “opportune” time to reinstate the committee.

“As a parent of a teenager, I am aware of how well patronised and how well-appreciated these facilities are for skating activities and keeping out of mischief but they (facilities) are ageing,” she said.“As with all sports, skateboarding is evolving and the need for facilities to present new challenges to engage the participants is crucial.

“We don’t want to have teenagers travelling too far to be involved in social activities.

“If we can provide a voice in the development and upkeep of skate facilities, the users will have a sense of ownership and involvement that will create benefits not only for those directly involved but the community as a whole.”

The provision of existing and possible future skate and BMX facilities will also be considered as part of a broader community recreation plan to be developed by 2021.