Marston Moretaine is home to many young skaters, including myself and my friends, who love the thrill and excitement of skateboarding. Yet, our local skatepark is not a safe place for us to enjoy our passion. The ramps are perilous, the floor feels like a hazard waiting to happen, and the existing features don't cater to our needs for skateboarding or scooting. This turns what should be an amazing experience into a constant challenge to our safety.

Many of us find ourselves travelling outside Marston Moretaine to find skateparks that truly reflect what we, as skaters, desire – safe, well-designed features made from concrete, which is the standard for skateparks across the UK. Concrete skateparks are known for their durability, smoother rides, and reduced maintenance costs. Rebuilding our skatepark with these standards will not only ensure our safety but also encourage more skaters to develop their skills locally.

We can take inspiration from excellent skateparks in the UK, such as the Cantelowes Skatepark in London, which was designed with input from local skaters and constructed with concrete, creating a high-quality space for all skill levels. By involving professionals who truly understand skaters' needs in the design process for our skatepark, we can ensure our facility is both attractive and functional, offering varied features that serve the community for years to come.

Let's make Marston Moretaine a hub for young, enthusiastic skaters seeking a safe and exciting place to hone their craft without having to venture far from home. Revamping the skatepark with concrete and a skater-friendly design will not only foster a positive, healthy community but also enhance the recreational reputation of Marston Moretaine.

Please sign this petition to urge the local council to rework the Marston Moretaine skatepark, prioritising safety and skater satisfaction in its redesign. Together, we can build a better skatepark that benefits everyone in our community.