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Community of Dingwall celebrates laying of turf ceremony for new skatepark

Thursday 18 March 2004

17-year-old skating enthusiast and local resident Gary Watson is delighted to see his dream turned into reality this weekend following the start of work to create a new skateboard park in Dingwall. Watson helped to form Extreme Wheels, a voluntary group to lead the campaign for the development of this facility, which would enable youngsters to train and improve their techniques in a safe and suitable environment.

Commenting on the facility Watson said: “I am delighted that work on the new skateboard park is now underway. It has taken an enormous amount of patience and dedication from local councillors and residents of Dingwall for the project to reach this exciting stage. We are also hopeful that more youngsters will be encouraged to experience the thrill and excitement of participating in extreme sports once the facility is opened.”

This new facility, supported by an award of £13,680 from the sportscotland Lottery Fund is being built on the site behind the all-weather pitch at Jubliee Park and aims to provide skateboarders, inline skaters and BMX bikers with a safe and secure environment to enjoy their activities. The 40x18m fenced tarmac area with wooden obstacles and ramps will also to help promote and encourage youngsters to get more active more often.

Florence MacLeod, Chairperson of Extreme Wheels said: “It has been a challenging but rewarding fours years and we are all delighted to see this project finally up and running. We are very grateful to sportscotland, community members and local councillors who have given tremendous support to the development of this facility. I am certain once completed, the skateboard park facility will prove invaluable to youngsters providing them with a purpose-built training and competition facility.”
Alastair Dempster, Chairman of sportscotland said: “Sport brings positive health benefits, but if we want people to participate in sport and more importantly, make physical activity a lifetime habit, then we have to make it easier for people to gain access to quality leisure provisions. I am sure the young people of Dingwall are looking forward to practicing their skills in a safe and secure environment once the facility opens in the near future.

  • The laying of the turf ceremony will take place at the skateboard park, Dingwall on Saturday 20 March 2004 at 12.00 (noon).