Work starts on £16,000 replacement skatepark

The firm, a subsidiary of The Source skateboard and BMX shop in St Leonards Road, is already half-way through the task.

Partner Rich Moore said work started during Monday morning's downpour.

"It will take around two weeks to complete and we will, at some point, hold an opening day with local pro riders/skaters.

"Source Skateparks Ltd won the contract after working in consultation with local users on the design and will be using 100 per cent local people /companies on the project."

The new line-up will include quarter pipes, flat banks, sub boxes, ledges and a pyramid.

Rich says Source Skateparks grew out of last year's Big Spin initiative in which young enthusiasts worked under expert direction at the High School to build the ramps for an impressive public show on the De La Warr Pavilion terrace.

Ex-professional rider Mark "Fids" Findlay has joined the team as a skatepark builder.

On-site on Tuesday, Rich said: "We built a skatepark in Kent in February. This is our first local authority contract."

The work at Galley Hill began with cutting up and removing the old metal ramps.

The new ramps are being built out of marine-ply and pressure-treated 4x2 timber.

Rich said: "The options for skatepark building are concrete, metal or wood.

"Concrete is too expensive for local authority work.

"Metal is so slippery that it can be dangerous.

"It is more for skateboarders than BMXers. There will be a couple of four foot ramps but most will be three foot high.

"It will have a wooden floor. You won't be able to see any of the concrete base, which makes it seamless and gives a faster ride.

"The park was designed in consultation with local users through meetings we held at the De La Warr Pavilion at the end of last year and early this year.

"We also conducted surveys as to the preferred surface (overwhelmingly wood -some concrete) and the design of the park. Other requests included floodlights.

"There will be an open day where local users can ride and skate alongside professionals. There will be a barbecue and raffle etc held by High School pupils with all proceeds going towards Big Spin, date to be announced,

"The park will be finished by next weekend - August 19-20 - hopefully mid-week if the weather is kind to us.

"The park is aimed at all levels of ability from beginners through to pro."

The second annual Source Big Spin will be held at the De La Warr Pavilion on Sunday, September 3. Work on building the ramps for this will be undertaken at the High School under Source direction during the preceding week.