A community group working to improving skating in Peterhead has secured funding for the first phase of the project.
Blueskate want to build a better, purpose-built skating facility in the town.
The current park was built in 2007 and, over the years, has provided a space for people of all ages to come together and skate.
But now it is in dire need of repair, or otherwise will need replaced in three years.
Blueskate has been working to raise funds, and has just secured its first grant to allow the first phase of improvements to secure the park’s future.
The Buchan Development Partnership has awarded the group – which established a new committee earlier this year to drive forward the project – £750 to upgrade the lighting.
Blueskate treasurer Tev Warrander said: “I’ve been part of Blueskate since the beginning, when a group was pulled together back in 1998.
“The skatepark is close to my heart.
“It’s great to be involved again and help with the future of the park and to make it as relevant as it was all those years ago.
“I hope the community can get together and help support us with our plans.”
The second phase of the project includes consulting the community about what people want from the space, and what users would like to see incorporated into the plans.
Local councillor Dianne Beagrie has been supporting Blueskate’s efforts.
She said: “I have been involved with this new group from the start and look forward to supporting them in the future with their plans.
“This is a very popular area for the community and expanding it will be very welcome.”
Phase three of the project will be the final completion of a high quality park which was started more than 10 years ago.
In 2007 the group managed to get £50,000 from a Scottish Executive grant at the time and bought a concrete surface, as well as large ramps and jumps.
But these were destroyed by vandals mere months after they were installed and the park has been needing upgrades since.
To get involved with Blueskate Peterhead, search on Facebook or e-mail blueskate.peterhead@gmail.com
