As a skateboarder from the local community it makes me incredibly sad to see WGC doesn't have an great skatepark. As a result, people have to travel out of the area to Stevenage, St. Albans, Hertford or Hemel Hempstead and whilst some are able to do this there are many kids who are not, or whose parents are time-pressured and unable to take their children.

There is proof that clearly demonstrates the need for these local facilities, as reported in the Welwyn Hatfield Times July 2014, Hatfield's skatepark opened early due to an unexpectedly high demand, to the point where people were trying to access the park before the fencing had even been taken down.

The skatepark on King George playing fields has been around for many years, evident by the signs of wear and tear on the ramps. The layout is not the most considered and mainly targeted at BMXers. The skatepark itself is a great size and has plenty of potential to be a go-to area for people of the area. To stamp out stigmas of anti-social behavoiur (ASB) and to show there is a thriving community in the area.

There is an opportunity for Finesse Leisure to work with members of the sports community to create something truly great for our residents that is designed and considered by people who know and cherish these sports, the skateboard, scooter and BMX community.

I am therefore asking if the council would consider renovating the skate park for the benefit of the community. Please sign the petition and  follow the Facebook group 'A skatepark for WGC' for people to show their support and have their say.

Thank you in advance,

Liam