Kids scoot down to opening of Thatcham skatepark

The project was led by the Jubilee Skate Park Group, made up of parents and young people, who campaigned for the refurbishment. They also consulted users, helped develop the plans in partnership with Thatcham Town Council, and organised the fundraising.
It was officially reopened on Friday.
Funding for the work at the park in Harts Hill Road has come from the town council, West Berkshire Council, Greenham Common Trust, Waitrose, AWE, Greenham Construction, Henwick Properties, Absolute Brickwork, as well as other local donors. Veolia Environmental Trust awarded a grant of £24,000 through the Landfill Communities Fund.
As part of the project, the ramps were re-surfaced, the backs were closed off to prevent anti-social behaviour and extra equipment was installed.
The chairwoman of the Jubilee Skate Park Group, Paula McAuley, said: “It is great to see the revamp complete – the end result is great. We now have a durable and fun skatepark that can be used by all, including scooter riders, who cannot use the skatepark in Newbury, which is five miles away.
“Youth facilities in the area are currently very limited and the revamped skatepark will be a great boost to the village and the young people living here.
“Thanks to everyone who helped make it happen.
“I’m relieved that it is now open – it has been 18-months of hard work.”
At the opening, Thatcham mayor Mike Cole said: “This has really been driven by the community. It shows the great community spirit in Thatcham.”
Sharon Briggs, from Empowering West Berkshire, which supported the project, said that the consultation with the users gave them a voice and allowed them to be involved with the project.
She said: “It helped them to feel part of the community.”
The executive director of Veolia Environmental Trust, McNabb Laurie, said: “We support community and environmental projects up and down the UK and it is always a pleasure to hear about the opening of one we have supported.
“I hope the revamped skatepark is used and enjoyed for many years.”