The Botley and North Hinksey Parish Council proudly announces that £200,000 has been successfully raised for the much-anticipated new skatepark in Louie Memorial Playing Fields. Construction is set to begin on 2nd September 2024, with the state-of-the-art facility expected to be completed by Christmas.
This milestone comes after 15 years of relentless efforts by the skatepark campaign, supported by a parish council dedicated to the well-being of local youth. The collective perseverance of the community has finally borne fruit.
The local group Botley Sk8s played a pivotal role in fundraising, organizing events such as a disco, a film show, and a roller disco, all hosted at the Tap Social Movement. Sean Clark, the manager of Tap Social Movement, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “When the whole community gets behind a project like this, it gives you hope!”
The fundraising efforts will continue with a Quiz night and raffle scheduled for 7th September.
A significant boost to the project came from a £100,000 grant from FCC, the landfill trust, in March, which lifted everyone’s spirits. This was followed by £20,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund in July and £10,000 from Cumnor Parish Council shortly after. The Botley and North Hinksey Parish Council extends heartfelt thanks to these generous contributors.
The remaining funds will be sourced from the Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds, which are developers’ contributions to the local community, along with various contributions from local businesses.
The new skatepark will replace the iconic Botley Bowl, which was sadly damaged beyond repair in 2009 when a stolen car was driven onto the site and set it alight.
Instead of a traditional bowl, the new design features the flowing curves of a modern skatepark, including the only mini-ramp in the area and a flat section for street skaters. It will cater to all styles of wheeled sports and skill levels.
The design, finalized after two years of vigorous discussion by a representative panel of skaters and parents and guided by Canvas Spaces, a highly experienced contractor, promises to be innovative and inclusive.
If all goes according to plan, the skatepark will be completed by Christmas, with an official launch event scheduled for the Easter holidays. This launch will be a grand celebration, marking a new era for Botley’s skating community.
For more updates and information, residents and interested parties are encouraged to visit the North Hinksey Parish Council’s official website or attend community meetings. The new skatepark promises to be a valuable addition to the community, promoting physical activity, skill development, and social interaction among local youth.
