It's been five years of twists and turns but Mumbles Skatepark is now, finally, officially open. The epic £461,800 park, funded by Mumbles Community Council and the National Lottery Community Fund, features a large skate "bowl" attraction, transition areas, and a "street area" with obstacles, rails and ledges for skateboarders, roller-skaters, scooter riders and BMX riders of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
The park, built by Maverick Skateparks which owns and operates several skateparks across England and Wales, first opened to the public in February but had its official launch on Saturday, June 10. At the launch event, dubbed the "Mumbles Skatepark Jam," dozens of skateboarders, roller skaters and scooter riders of all ages took to the bowl and the street area to show off their skating and impressive tricks and turns, whilst hundreds of their family, friends and members of the community turned up to spectate and support.
There was also music, demonstrations by professional BMX riders, and a few food and drink and community stalls for people to peruse while the launch event 'jam' took place. Organisers also hosted a competition and challenged people to show off their skills in front of the crowds.
Read more: What people really think of Mumbles Skatepark
The land where the skatepark is based, parallel to Oystermouth Road and near to Blackpill Lido on the way into Mumbles from Swansea, used to be home to a mini half-pipe skate attraction and was chosen as the site for the new state-of-the-art skate park three years ago. After selecting the land, organisers faced two years of complex planning and preparation and land and legal checks before construction work of the fantastic facility could begin last September.
In a statement earlier this year, Mumbles Community Council praised Maverick Skateparks for constructing a skatepark suitable for so many. "We would like to thank Maverick for creating a world-class skate park which is accessible to all, whatever age, physical ability or level of skill," they said. "Mumbles Community Council would again like to thank all those involved in making this fantastic project happen and we look forward to seeing Mumbles Skatepark come to life."
At the time, chair of Mumbles Skatepark Association, which had played a huge role in raising funds and lobbying for the project, Jason Williams said the Association was thrilled. "Community support has been phenomenal and the new skate park will be a fantastic asset to the community," he said.
Deputy leader of Swansea Council, David Hopkins said earlier this year: "We're pleased to have played a key role in helping to make the project reality. The park will be a big positive for the skating community, with young adults teaching young children, building self-esteem and strengthening the sense of belonging. It's something people of all ages can get involved with; it's family friendly and accessible to all."
Fellow cabinet member, Cllr Robert Francis-Davies said: “There was great positive feedback to the skate park in public consultation. It's well located for local skateboarders and has many other positives such as offering the potential to further enhance the Blackpill activity area."
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