Calls for Market Drayton skate park cash to go elsewhere
A number of residents in Market Drayton believe money set aside for a new £155,000 skate park could be better spent elsewhere.
It comes after Market Drayton Town Council revealed it may have to delay the start of the building of the skate park until new CCTV cameras are installed in the area.
Extensive graffiti has been found in the men's toilets off Newport Road, opposite the proposed skate park site over the past two weeks.
People have been taking to the community Facebook page Drayton Crier to voice their opinions on the skate park.
James Coggins posted: "Are the council seriously considering spending £155,000 on a skate park plus the money for CCTV installation?
"Seems hugely misplaced considering the other sports facilities badly needed in town for sports with well established clubs – such as cricket, hockey, football and rugby etc."
Mark Johnson said: "CCTV is needed working in the town centre first, and a new sports centre to replace the Maurice Chandler sports hangar."
Alistair Jenkin posted: "There is also an archery club. Drayton Bowmen would love a new field and hut, set up for the town to use totally with my own money. A bit of help and recognition would be great."
Karen Jukes said: "Apparently not many children go to the skate park near the baths. They have that one, why spend on another?"
Gaynor Howell commented: "Might be better spent on cleaning the town and side roads up.
"I have been living off Manor Gardens for five years and have never seen a road sweeper once.
"Flowers and memorial area look beautiful but the rubbish, sadly neglected empty shops due to ridiculous rates, really let the town down."
In May, the town council was awarded £75,000 from Sports England to help breathe life into its 15-year-old skate park.
The town council has also pledged £80,000 towards the scheme.
The current Market Drayton skate park, which is close to the swimming pool, will be replaced with a larger site as part of the development.
But not all people are against the idea.
Christine Blandford posted: "Well I don't see the harm – the current skate park isn't very challenging and it's very small so it's not surprising it's apparently not used much.
"Let's get it built and support kids who may not fit the regular stereotype of football etc."
Sarah-Louise Gloster said: "There was a letter about the skate park online through Meres and Mosses and they did a show and tell asking people what they wanted.
"My son for one uses the skate part all the time along with his friends and they would love a new one.
"It's just a shame that they are not putting in a proper crossing for the children and new toilets."
Meanwhile, Longlands recreational area in the town is also due to be revamped. No firm plans have yet been drawn up, but consultation is being held with local groups.
