A FOREST village has set itself a target of replacing a worn-out skatepark.

It could cost as much as £25,000 to replace the former wooden skatepark at Woolaston much of which was recently demolished on safety grounds.

A public meeting held last Friday (June 7) agreed to set up a committee to work towards getting a steel replacement for the original skatepark which had rotted.

The skatepark was built eight years ago on land near Woolaston Memorial Hall and earlier this year the hall committee took over ownership from the original organising group.

Chairman of the hall committee, Mr John Anderson, said: “Shortly after it became apparent the equipment was in a pretty poor state of repair and a more detailed survey showed it was beyond reasonable repair.

“Since the park is on memorial hall land, the hall has assumed ownership which is advantageous for getting grants.”

“We agreed the equipment was dangerous and the two most dangerous pieces have now been demolished. The small, low ramp in the middle has been retained but that will have to go at some point.”

Woolaston Parish Council originally agreed to pay for insurance and maintenance and will decide at its meeting tomorrow (Thursday) whether it will support the new project.

Council chairman Mr Mick Fairless told the meeting: “Without pre-judging the decision, we would like to see it rebuilt.”

A ‘census’ of users found skateboarders came from as far as Chepstow and Lydney. It is hoped that a replacement facility will be available in about two years.