BMX stunts to help launch new Newbury skate park

Youths already making use of new ramps in Victoria Park, to be launched along with new playground next month

BMXers and skateboarders from West Berkshire have a new platform on which to perform - a new skate park in Newbury.

The new concrete skate park in Victoria Park has been built at a cost of £200,000, with £50,000 funding coming from both Greenham Common Trust and the Government sponsored Playbuilder initiative.

Following a health and safety inspection, it was opened on Monday (June 20), although a notice has been displayed to prevent people using scooters on the new facility to try and protect the skate park from being damaged.

Meanwhile, a revamped play area with new equipment has been installed nearby at a cost of £95,000, which includes £50,000 funding from Greenham Common Trust.

It features a Mega Tower, a cantilever basket swing and other new play equipment, is already proving popular with local families.

The leader of Newbury Town Council, Julian Swift-Hook (Lib Dem, Pyle Hill), said: “We now have a competition standard skate park in Victoria Park, which puts Newbury firmly on the map for skateboarders and BMXers.

“The new play area provides a range of play equipment for all ages and offers the versatility of expansion in the future.”

Both are now fully operational and are already in use by local residents, although they will be officially launched on Sunday, July 3, with representatives from Greenham Common Trust, Playbuilder and children from Victoria Park Nursery School assisting Newbury mayor Jeff Beck at the opening.

Top skateboarders and BMXers will be demonstrating their skills with performances on the ramps, while the skate park constructors Maverick Industries will be organising competitions throughout the day, with several prizes on offer.

The event will start at 12 noon.