why lichfield needs a skatepark...

Communities around the country are learning that a good skatepark is an essential social asset, because skateboarding and BMX riding appeals to a significant proportion of young people who don’t like organised and competitive events, which require them to join a team or a club. There is not much for this group to do in Lichfield, so they tend to hang around, get bored and can get into mischief. A good skatepark will often appeal to them and provide a healthy outlet for their energies.

Experience of skateboarding in America and elsewhere, shows that a good skatepark should be located in a place where the skateboarders can show off their skills in public, which means in the centre of the community where the public walk. Skateboarders often spend hours perfecting their skills, hurting themselves in falls, to get up and try again; that takes a certain stamina which draws skaters together in an informal but loyal group.

The skatepark must be a challenge for all skill levels, so that each skateboarder can look up to those who are more skilled, and be motivated to improve their technique. So often, skateparks have been built in this country that are badly designed and unable to give a rider a satisfying experience and a challenge to improve their skills. A well designed skatepark is almost indestructible and does not need protection. It is built of smooth concrete that reduces the noise and makes it safer to use; around 40% is below ground level.

If we can build a true state of the art skatepark, our skaters will be proud of it and will work together in an informal way, to ensure that it is properly used. It will attract young people to take up skating who otherwise might roam the streets and get into trouble. In recognition of the social value of a good skatepark, communities around the world are building them in the centre of their towns and cities where everyone can enjoy them, either by skating and BMX riding or by just watching and admiring. The opening of a good skatepark will see a reduction of anti-social behaviour in the area, of as much as 35% (Dunbarton Police study)

We plan to build a skatepark having a total skating area of about 1,500 m² (16,000 ft²) with surrounding grassed mounds and trees to attenuate any sound, and locate it in a central part of Lichfield where the public walk, which will be easy to access by most skaters. Most of the cost will be raised from private funds and the Big Lottery.

We need your full support for this project for our young people Please sign our petition

Lichfield Skatepark Association