26 Jan 2024
Planning permission has been granted for a new look skatepark in Harpenden’s Rothamsted Park.
Designs accommodating the need for an inviting and inclusive space, with good wheelchair access, features for all abilities and ages, and suitability for different users including skateboards, BMX bikes, WCMX (adapted wheelchairs), scooters and roller skates, were agreed earlier this year.
Now charity PARC is fundraising to ensure the £250,000 vision becomes a reality, with local residents and businesses urged to provide the £150K needed on top of a £100K donation from Harpenden Town Council.
Town Mayor Cllr Fiona Gaskell said: “News that planning permission has now been secured for the new skatepark is extremely exciting. This is an important redevelopment benefiting a wide-ranging demographic, particularly Harpenden’s young people and their families. HTC delighted to be working in partnership with PARC and we thank them for their continued hard work and dedication.”
PARC was originally set up in 2018 by local parents and grandparents to redevelop Rothamsted Park’s playpark in partnership with HTC, and is following a similar model for this project.
PARC representative Rod Cooley said: “With planning permission now in place, the only barrier to building the Rothamsted Skatepark is the funding. PARC has been working hard to obtain funds but we still have a substantial amount to raise to reach our target.
“To help us do this, residents can donate £100 and have their name or a message inscribed on a paver that will be laid on the path from the Leisure Centre to the skatepark. Just 200 pavers are available!
“Furthermore, PARC is appealing to local businesses to sponsor the skatepark with donations of any amount gratefully received. A £2,500 donation will secure a place on the sponsor board to be located by the skatepark illustrating business’ support of this great community project. Details about these and any donation can be found on our webpage www.parc.charity/donate ”
A new advertising campaign launched this week reminds residents and visitors to Rothamsted Park that skateparks are a place for people of all ages and abilities to socialise, exercise outdoors, learn and enjoy local green spaces.
For more information, visit www.parc.charity email emailparc@gmail.com or call 07955 027524.
