Filey’s fully accessible skate park opens to the public

Councillor Keane Duncan, cutting the ribbon, surrounded by representatives from the council, town council, police and Filey Lions Club.

Budding skaters are being invited to try out Filey’s new sporting facility following its official opening.

The floodlit skate park has been constructed on West Avenue next to the multi-use games area. It is a fully accessible outdoor facility, catering for skateboards, BMX, scooters and wheelchair motocross users.

The park has been funded with £326,000 from North Yorkshire Council, £28,000 from Filey Town Council and £8,500 from the Office of the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.

It has been designed and constructed by Canvas Spaces Ltd who specialise in the installation of concrete skateparks.

A cyclist trying out the new skate park in front of crowds at the official opening event on Saturday.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for parks and grounds, Coun Keane Duncan, said: "I am thrilled to see Filey skate park come to fruition following the aspiration from local young people and the vision from the council and partners.

"It's not just about concrete and ramps, it's about providing a space where young people can thrive, express themselves, and build lasting friendships. This skate park is a testament to the power of collaboration and the dedication of our community.

"This new facility in Filey is a great addition to the town which will bring together a lot of young people, offer them something exciting and encourage physical activity."

The skate park was officially opened by Coun Duncan, along with representatives from Filey Town Council and local skate shops.

A free skateboarding lesson was offered to children and young people alongside a series of competitions.

Mayor of Filey, Coun Jacqui Houlden-Banks, added: "The town council is delighted to have been able to support the Skate Park Group in building the park, as this will benefit all in Filey, promoting improved health and wellbeing.”

The design was created with a specific focus on the needs of Filey’s young people and to create an informal sporting hub for the town and nearby communities.

Local children and young people previously called for a skate park and were at the forefront of the planning process by forming the Ravine Skatepark Group, which worked with North Yorkshire Council to develop the project.

Skater Max Short, 19, was involved in the development of the park for the last few years. He said: “Ravine skate park is a brilliant addition to the multi-use games area in Filey. It has taken years to get to this point, but I’m delighted it's now open.

“Skate parks are fantastic for enhancing your skills and learning from more experienced people. You not only gain skills but it's great exercise and can bring together people of all ages.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has taken the original idea and made it a reality. Countless hours of preparation and delivery have gone into this project, and we wouldn't be here without those people.”