Boarders, bladers and BMXers will be pleased to hear that a brand new extreme sports park is planned for Blackpool.

If successful funds can be raised, it is planned that a state-of-the-art facility will replace the current skate park at Blackpool’s Stanley Park, and will feature the latest extreme sports equipment for skateboarders, BMX bikers and in-line skaters.

Blackpool Council will work with UK Extreme Sports Limited from now until next year when it is hoped that work will commence on the new project.

Councillor Tony Williams, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities, said: “Local teenagers and users of the existing skate park in Stanley Park have told us how much they would love to see a new area such as this developed in Blackpool.

“If we are successful in obtaining funding, we will work alongside UK Extreme Sports and the design of the new facility will be influenced by local boarders, bladers and bikers.

"Consultation with young people is taking place so that they take a lead on the project and have the loudest voice in deciding what facilities are provided".

Not only will the development of an extreme sports park encourage young people to get involved in active and positive recreation, it will also help to encourage professional development in this type of sport and involvement by local sports clubs.

A Trust of partners will be set up to specifically see the project through from raising the necessary funds, to undertaking large scale consultations, as well as overseeing the design and build.

It is estimated that the project will take approximately two years to complete dependant on successful funding bids.

More details about the plans for a new extreme sports park in Blackpool will be made available in Spring 2009.

However, if you are a potential skate park user and want to find out more, please email lisa.kersey@blackpool.gov.uk