A BRAND new skatepark will open this summer after the designs were approved by Southend Council’s planning team.

In January last year, the council’s parks team consulted with the skating, scooter and BMX community and residents to find the ideal location for a brand new skatepark within the town centre. After the consultation, the Warrior Square location was agreed.

The council then consulted once again to assist with the layout and design of the facility, along with the council’s selected contractor Maverick Industries. The event saw more than 60 people attending on January 12.

The council obtained planning permission for the site in December, has announced that works are expected to start week commencing May 13, with a grand opening earmarked for the summer

James Courtenay, cabinet member for growth, said: “Building a new skatepark has long been an ambition of both the council and myself, and I am absolutely delighted that we are on course for construction to start within the next few weeks.

“The facility will be accessible for all ages and abilities, whilst maintaining a certain level of intricacy in the design to ensure advanced users are still able to utilise the space.

“I would like to thank everyone that has taken part in the consultation events, as well as our contractor for the facility Maverick Skateparks. We are confident the facility will prove popular and help promote active and healthy lifestyles and activities within Southend.

"As well as all of this, we must remember that most importantly, this will be fun for a lot of residents across the borough, both you and old, which is what this is all about.”