Local skateboarders, BMX enthusiasts, scooter riders and inline skaters can enjoy some of the best facilities in the area thanks to a brand- new skatepark, which has been provided by Horsham District Council.
The new skatepark, situated in Horsham Park, which has been designed in close collaboration with a local user group, was declared open today (Wednesday 7 December).
Leader of the Council Cllr Jonathan Chowen, accompanied by Cabinet Member for Horsham Town Centre Cllr Christian Mitchell and ward councillors went along to view the new park. User group members also came along to test out the new facility.
The new park contains some of the highest quality features for each of the wheeled disciplines. It has been made from concrete to ensure users have a fast and perfectly smooth ride with plenty of flow lines to choose from.
A large open flow section has been expanded in every direction and features a more pronounced hip, extension and jump ramp line which offers a more diverse riding experience for all. Skateboarders will benefit from the pump bump in the middle of the open flow bowl, which can be used to retain speed while in the bowl.
Just around the corner is another open bowl which will appeal to BMX riders with ramp heights up to seven foot six inches for experienced riders who want a real challenge.
The much loved two stair in the teardrop area has been extended and now includes more steps, a rail and hubbas.
The fully concrete plaza area caters for all riders, especially skateboarders, scooters and rollerbladers and features a specially designed rail as well as a flat ledge, manual pad, quarterpipe and flat bank.
Overall, each new area of the park can be ridden by all wheeled users, with certain features throughout catering for BMX, scooter, inline skates and skateboard riders.
Commenting on the new facility, Leader of Horsham District Council Cllr Jonathan Chowen said:
I am delighted that we have created this special place, an amazing free facility which will draw people of all ages and abilities from across the Horsham District and beyond.
Whether you are new to skateboarding or are a veteran, I am sure our new skate park will play an important role in developing the sport and getting people active whilst enjoying the beautiful outdoor space at Horsham Park.
My thanks go out to our user group members for all their ideas and inspiration which have ensured our new design is cutting edge and is a multi-wheeled facility, not just for skateboarders.
Do come along and experience it for yourselves.
Users from the various wheeled disciplines who had shared their ideas throughout the development and design stages of the park came along to test out the new facilities.
Josh who is a rollerblader said:
It’s good to have such a great facility which is so close to home.
Jake, a scooter user commented:
The ramps will appeal to everyone and there are lots of transitions. There is something for everyone here.
Caelan a BMX bike user added:
It’s really cool. You’ve got lots of big transitions here so everyone is going to be happy. The Council took on board all our comments and feedback as users. It is one of the best concrete parks in the whole area.
The facility has been created by the experts at Betongpark who demonstrated an innovative approach to design and strong attention to technical detail.
Please note for safety reasons it is advised not to use the skatepark when the surface is particularly wet.
The Council is planning a Skate Jam in the Summer of 2023. This will be a free to attend event which will include coaching and training. Check out the Council’s Instagram account for updates or visit our Horsham skatepark webpage.
Image gallery
BMX user tries the park
User group members were the first to try the new park
Welcome to the new Horsham Skatepark