Wool skatepark opens after years of fundraising

The Wool Skaters Group has finally announced the opening of Wool Skatepark after years of campaigning, which attracted huge public support.

Plans for a high quality concrete park beat thousands of other applicants by winning the maximum grant of £50,000 from Sport England in 2017, but this would only provide 35 per cent of build costs projected by the group. A recent grant from the National Lottery made up the rest of the funds needed, following years of community support and individual fundraising efforts.

The park has now been built and youngsters have already been making the most of the new facilities.

Project director Patrick Murray said: “A massive thank you goes out to our contractor Maverick Skateparks for all their professional guidance and knowhow that has made the whole process possible. These guys really know their stuff and it’s been a joy to work with them.

“We’re so thankful to every single one of the fundraising volunteers and local businesses who supported this project over the years. We salute you!

“Of course none of this would be possible without Wool Parish Council, which was so supportive right from the beginning.

"A big shout out to Jacqui, former Wool Parish Council Clerk, for all of her hard work and dedication and not forgetting Steve who has taken over as Clerk and hit the floor running.

"We’ve had great feedback on the skatepark so far. There are so many smiles - it really couldn’t have come at a better time for young people to have a place to go especially in this new world of restrictions we find ourselves in.

"Of course due to the current situation in the world we have been unable to do any official ceremony or opening jam.

“Rest assured this will come in time, it’s just a bit delayed. If you are visiting we urge you to please follow current Covid guidelines and respect the local residents and the new facility. We do hope the skatepark brings you and your families great joy over the years.”