A SKATE park in Rossendale is set to be removed – sparking calls for a council re-think.

The once popular site in Porritt Way, Ramsbottom has suffered from vandalism and fallen into disrepair since being closed nearly two years ago.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Earlier this week Bury Council bosses decided to remove the skate park in the hope of reducing anti-social behaviour and complaints from nearby residents.

However, Ramsbottom councillor Ian Bevan has criticised the decision.

He said: “It is with regret that I have heard from Bury Council officers that they propose to dismantle and remove Ramsbottom Skate Park, despite the fact that the council has allocated hundreds of thousand pounds of capital and receipts from planning applications for upgrades to play areas.”

Bury Council said it made the decision due to a lack of funds to refurbish and re-open the park.

Cllr Bevan added: “I have long called for upgraded facilities for local skateboarders and BMX-ers and I know that members of Ramsbottom Young People’s Project met with Bury Council last summer to discuss Ramsbottom Skate Park and whether they could support it being regenerated.

“Other campaign groups also exist on social media.

“Whilst the existing facility is small, situated behind Ramsbottom Leisure Centre and Swimming, it is in a good location, with excellent parking and a children’s play park right next to it.

“It is a safe area for local children to use.

“However, despite discussions with council officers, they are not prepared to change their decision.

“I would call on the leaders of Bury Council to consult with residents, reverse this decision and look again at all available funding avenues.”

Bury Council said it plans to spend £50,000 in 2015/16 on refurbishing play areas in Ramsbottom.

Cllr Paddy Heneghan, who is in charge of children’s and leisure services for Bury Council, said: “The difficult decision has been made to close the skate park in Ramsbottom.

“It’s current condition means the costs of refurbishment were simply too great to make it viable.”

Play area spending includes a £15,000 project at Nuttall Park, £25,000 at Peel Brow and £10,000 at Whalley Road, Shuttleworth.