Wandsworth Council invests £150,000
The Council has announced it will invest £150,000 in a new skateboard park at the Kimber Road site in King George’s Park.
The council will replace existing equipment with a bigger, better and more challenging skate park facility. The plans were developed after consultation with local parents and young people and are due to save at least £147,000 a year in running costs.
Kim Caddy, Conservative candidate in the forthcoming Southfields by-election, says: “It’s important young people have something to do locally and skateboarding is amazingly popular. We’ve seen these schemes work really well in Ealing and Richmond, with one study showing that these facilities can reduce anti-social behaviour.”
Kathy Tracey, cabinet member for children’s services, says: “I’m proud Wandsworth has been able to make difficult decisions to save money without closing any playgrounds. Local councillors are determined to deliver value for money by providing the best-possible services for the lowest-possible cost. These plans will offer something new and exciting and make sure Kimber Road stays free to use.”
There are also plans to extend and transform the existing open-access playground for older children into an “all-age” play site at York Gardens in Battersea.
February 27, 2012