SKATERS and BMX-ers from a Coventry school have launched a petition to renovate a run-down skatepark in the War Memorial Park.
More than 400 people have signed a petition to Coventry City Council led by kids from Earlsdon Primary School, Earlsdon Avenue, Earlsdon.
The young campaigners have grown tired of the declining condition of the skatepark, and claim it has become unsafe.
But the council has told us budgets are tight and an immediate refurbishment would be unlikely.
The petition states: “We are a campaign to renovate the War Memorial skatepark as it is not fit for purpose because of its age, lack of repair and limited size.
“In its current state it is unsafe and cannot accommodate the number of skatepark users.
“Please support us in trying to improve the skatepark; making it bigger and better for all of us on wheels in Coventry (and beyond).
“We want a skatepark Coventry can be proud of!”
A Coventry mum Jaine Fleetwood Tweeted: “I love this! Skaters and BMX-ers from my daughter’s school launched a petition to get Coventry’s Memorial Park skate park refurbished.
“Sadly it’s only for Cov residents to sign. I am so impressed by these school kids’ drive!”
Residents have called for new and attractive places for young people to spend their time pursuing sports or socialising.
This is amid a worrying rise in violent crime and gang activity among young people – with funding cuts and resulting youth centre closures an unfortunate reality.
A Coventry City Council spokesperson said: “Declining is a very negative term, natural wear and tear is bound to happen in well used facilities.
“All areas are regularly inspected and all are maintained in a safe and usable condition.
“Budgets are still limited and further central government cuts in funding are likely which clearly limits our ability to undertake all the refurbishment work we would like.
“All play areas are regularly inspected and maintained.
“With over 400 sites across the city there is a lot of sites to maintain and develop.
“We often rely on Section 106 monies (compensation) from new developments to fund major refurbishments or improvements.
“We will also work with local organisations on external funding applications to refurbish their local play facilities.
“We are always committed to maintaining our green spaces and play areas to the highest standards possible within capacity and funding constraints.
“Just one decent sized skate feature can cost between £40,000-60,000.”
