Plans for new skatepark in Liversedge set to be approved shortly

The new facility in Royds Park is a replacement for the skatepark that used to sit alongside the old Spenborough Pool before the site was redeveloped.

It will be known as Spen Valley Skatepark.

When the multi-million-pound Spen Valley Leisure Centre was being planned there were “mixed views” about the loss of the skatepark.

As a result, Kirklees Council said it would explore the feasibility of relocating the facility to the nearby park.

Now those plans are being recommended for approval.

A design and access statement states: “The original skatepark was located at Spenborough Swimming Pool, opposite Royds Park.

“Both the pool and skatepark were demolished during 2019 to make way for the new Spen Valley Leisure Centre.

Royds Park in Liversedge (Image: Google Street View)

“The desire for a new skatepark/scooter park to replace and upgrade the previous facility is heavily supported and has been mostly driven by the ward councillors for Heckmondwike, Liversedge, Gomersal and Cleckheaton.

“Kirklees Parks & Open Spaces and Kirklees Landscape Architects along with Communities & Access Services (EIP Communities Teams – Youth) and Governance & Commissioning (Active Citizens & Places) are facilitating the application for the skatepark.”

It adds that the area for the skatepark will be a maximum of 500 square metres, although if funds are not enough to pay for the whole skatepark from the outset it “may be phased as funds become available”.

The design brief is to create an “interactive community asset that appeals to all ages and abilities”.

An example of what the new skatepark in Liversedge would look like (Image: Kirklees Council)

It will be built from “in-situ” concrete, incorporating ramps a bowl and a base, with rails and balustrades constructed from metal.

The plans are being recommended for approval at the next meeting of the Heavy Woollen Planning Sub-Committee which takes place on November 9.

A total of 26 objections have been received against the scheme, with concerns raised including a loss of green space, that the skatepark will be an eyesore and that it will increase noise and anti-social behaviour in the area.

The report by planners, which will be considered at the committee meeting, makes it clear that the local crime prevention officer was consulted about the development.

They did not object and have provided advice on security measures which could be included in the scheme to “maximise the security” including lighting and CCTV.

The skatepark is also 52 metres from the nearest house, so planners believe any additional noise would not cause “significant harm” to those living nearby.