Construction of Derbyshire towns first wheeled sports facility turns a corner
A long-awaited wheeled sports facility in Heanor will soon be ready to welcome skaters, BMX riders, scooter users, roller skaters and wheelchair users.
The £200,000 facility, located in Lockton Avenue, has been delivered with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and is the first concrete wheeled sports facility in Amber Valley. Other such facilities in the borough are constructed from other materials.
Construction began in October 2024 following high demand from youngsters in the area.
The facility, which will offer a high-quality, purpose-built environment for wheeled sports users of all ages and abilities, is now near completion.
Today (Friday 21 March), councillor John McCabe, cabinet member for communities and street pride, councillor Elaine Sherman, cabinet member for community safety, and councillor Paul Jones, Mayor of Heanor, visited the site as the project approaches its final stages.
Councillor Sherman said: "It’s fantastic to see this project come to life after so much anticipation. This long-awaited facility will make a real difference to those who have been calling for a space like this in Heanor.”
Designed by Gravity Engineering, a specialist team with extensive experience in wheeled sports facilities, the skatepark has been created to cater to all ages and abilities.
Whether for beginners or experienced riders, the facility offers a safe, inclusive and dynamic environment to practice skills, stay active and connect with others.
During the visit, members of the Gravity team brought the space to life with a demonstration of the bowl feature, showcasing the flow and quality of the design through an impressive display of skills.
Until now, Heanor was the only town in Amber Valley without an outdoor wheeled sports facility, making this project a major milestone for both the local area and the borough council.
Research shows that such facilities not only promote physical and mental well-being but also create positive social spaces that help reduce anti-social behaviour.
Councillor Jones added: "This has been a much-anticipated addition to the town, and it’s wonderful to see it take shape. The facility is a brilliant asset for Heanor, encouraging outdoor activity and bringing the community together."
No official opening date has yet been announced, but skaters and riders will soon able to make full use of the new facility, one that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Once the official opening date is confirmed, residents will be encouraged to visit the facility and try it out. In the meantime, the council would welcome any feedback on the design and project. To get involved, visit www.ambervalley.gov.uk/consultation.
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