A CONCETE skate park will be built in Cwmbran following approval by Torfaen council cabinet, who heard there is “a lot of appetite for the project”.

It will replace the existing wooden skate park in Cwmbran Boating Lake and is expected to attract users from outside the borough.

Tenders to design and build the new skating facility were received and the cabinet agreed to award the contract to the tenderer who received the highest score.

The plan is aiming to support the large skateboarding, BMX and scooter community in Torfaen.

In presenting the report neighbourhood services officer Christina Harrhy said: “There is a lot of appetite for the project both locally and regionally. The intention is to demolish the existing skating facilities at the boat lake and replace it with a new concrete one.”

At present there are three wooden skate parks in the Borough, which are well used, but which often require expensive maintenance or repairs.

The new concrete park will be located on Northfields Recreation Ground, off Llanfrechfa Way, with the existing wooden site situated near Cwmbran Boating Lake being removed following the installation of the new one.

The report before cabinet said: “The aim of the project is to build an aesthetically pleasing park that fits in with its surroundings.

“The park is planned to be suitable for all ages and skating abilities to allow users to improve their skills.”

It will be free to use and meets objectives to encourage participation in physical outdoor activities for all people, with special emphasis on the younger generation. It is also hoped that the park would be a facility that all members of the community could visit as spectators.

The funding for the project is being provided by cash for public open space and recreational facilities from the local housing development at St Josephs Meadow.

A maximum budget of £210,000 has been set for the skate park contract.