The reality of a regional skatepark at Lake Munmorah has inched one step closer following the go-ahead for Central Coast Councils’ Skatepark Strategy, which sets the long term direction for skateparks region wide.
It will be part of the recreation facility on the corner of Tall Timbers Rd and the Pacific Highway, over the road from the shopping centre.
The project is one of three priorities to be built in the next one to three years and will be capable of high level competition and training, catering for numerous styles of skating, and a broad range of sport and active recreation.
An old skate park in Acacia Ave will be decommissioned after the opening of the new facility and the site will be redeveloped as a recreation facility to complement the existing tennis and netball courts.
Minor repairs will be done at San Remo skatepark in the next three years while Council decides whether to upgrade in the long term.
There are long term plans (eight to 10 years) to establish a district level skatepark in the Warnervale/Wadalba area and a smaller one in the Tuggerah/Chittaway Bay area, in a location yet to be decided.
Long term plans are also in the works to relocate the Halekulani skatepark to Colongra Sporting Facility on Scenic Dr, Buff Point.
Council will also investigate potential sites and the feasibility of a regional skatepark west of the Pacific Highway.
Other skateparks will continue to be monitored for ongoing maintenance, including Berkeley Vale, Ourimbah, The Entrance, Blue Haven, Chain Valley Bay, Gwandalan, Lake Haven, Mannering Park, Toukley, Wadalba and Watanobbi.
The skatepark strategy will be reviewed every five years to keep up with trends and standards, however, Council says that on an annual basis the strategy will be monitored, evaluated and recommendations reported.
Administrator, Rik Hart, said community participation played an important role in the development of the Skatepark Strategy.
“Information gathered from engagement activities, such as workshop events, surveys and forum, provided valuable insight and helped Council develop a strategy that reflects what the community wants and needs,” he said.
“This strategy helps secure funding and sets a framework to ensure resources are appropriately allocated in the short, medium and long term to develop and maintain purpose built, safe and engaging skateparks and recreation areas equitably across our region.
“Council will continue to develop partnerships to stage events, programs, promote future facilities and seek funding opportunities,” Hart said.
Sue Murray