MLA calls for quicker progress on skate park

The park should have been completed by now but delays and red tape have meant that young people in the area are being denied the opportunity to use a very good facility, local MLA Carla Lockhart has said.

“We want young people to channel their energies wisely and a park of this nature is a very good way for them to do so. This will be a high class and unique facility within the local area,” she said.

“I have met with the council and would commend them for their tenacity in endeavouring to deliver on the Banbridge Legacy Council commitment however, I am aware that Rivers Agency have noted problems with the flood plain hence the delay.

“I will be meeting with Rivers Agency to help get this expedited as the delays are unwarranted.

“It is not difficult for these professionals to overcome the very few stumbling blocks which have caused these delays. Many other areas have these skate parks and these have managed to operate without issue. It is time to remove the blockages and bring this in demand facility to the Banbridge area.”

Councillor Greenfield said: “It will be a superb facility for the young people of Banbridge and I remain committed to working with Council and Rivers Agency to deal with the issues raised so that we can see this operational on the ground in the very near future.

“I look forward to intense further engagement with both authorities and seeing this project come to fruition. Solitude park is a jewel in the crown of Banbridge and we must utilise it to its full potential.”