BUDE-Stratton Town Council last week took the unanimous decision to move the redevelopment of the town’s skate park to the next stage.

The town council had previously recognised the need to update the current park owned by Cornwall Council and is awaiting the finalisation of transfer of ownership.

Last week’s decision will allow the council to commission the reports required to understand the site and ecological constraints of the area and, in doing, so they will have the information available to guide them on how best to progress with the project.

Being on the edge of the Downs, the project will be subject to a detailed planning application, supported by a variety of environmental and ecological studies, and the town council decision moves the project on in ensuring that a sustainable scheme can be designed and ultimately delivered.

The recent consultation on the Summerleaze Downs saw widespread support for the expansion of the current park.

Cllr Mike Dawe, joint lead councillor for youth provision and sport, said: “This is an exciting step forward in providing Bude with a modern facility, catering for a range of wheeled sports, and all the physical and social benefits that entails.

“Sports enthusiasts and young people have been waiting a long time for improvements in the town’s sports provision. While we have to recognise that there are still lots of hoops to jump through before this project can be delivered, last night we moved just that bit closer to realising a fantastic new facility, one that’s fit for the 21st century.”

In support of the decision to progress the skate park project, the council set up a working group to oversee the project. It also agreed to establish a ‘Wheeled Sports User Group’ to forge strong lines of communication with a range of existing and potential park users.

Cllr Dawe added: “We know this is a sensitive site not only from an environmental perspective but also a local community perspective, and we are committed to taking a balanced, inclusive approach. We look forward to involving the community, and keeping you updated on the progress of this work, so please do get in touch if you’d like to be involved.”

Anyone interested in joining is asked to make contact with the town council at [email protected] or get in touch with Cllr Dawe directly at [email protected]