The popularity of skateparks around the UK and elsewhere is rising as more people turn to sports involving inline skates, roller skates and other such things. Recently, a group of individuals from Hampshire took a petition to Downing Street in their bid to get more facilities of this kind established in their area.
Led by Richard Bartlett and Martin Codling from Romsey, they want the government to make sure indoor multi-wheeled sports and skateparks get the same level of support as ball sports, the Southern Daily Echo reports.
In total, around 40,000 people put their names down for the cause.
According to Mr Bartlett and Mr Codling, 45 per cent of the country’s youngsters aged between seven and 25 want the chance to use their inline skates, roller skates, BMXs and scooters but say there are no indoor parks for them to practice such activities.
This could be particularly problematic over the winter, with snow and ice having struck much of the country, making it very difficult for enthusiasts of these sports to engage in them.
The lead campaigners, who both have families in the area, hope to bring a new £1.4 million skatepark to a disused warehouse at Romsey’s Budds Lane or in Andover if they manage to secure the necessary funding.
Mr Bartlett stated: “People might think it is extreme to walk to the prime minister’s house but it is something we are very passionate about. There is a huge need for these activities. They promote health, well being, tackle obesity and help with crime prevention.”
He added: “There is nowhere for these kids to go. If the weather is wet, the outdoor parks aren’t suitable. It shows how many people would use these facilities from the amount of support we have got. I hope we are listened to.”