AN ageing riverside skatepark is to be revamped and expanded with additional amenities being incorporated into the new scheme.

The current Ross-on-Wye skatepark, located in Wilton Road car park, close to Ross Sports Centre, was built two decades ago, but it is now at the end of its predicted lifespan.

Councillor Ed O’Driscoll told members of Ross Town Council at its recent meeting that the planned upgrade of the town’s skatepark had now gone out to tender for a landscape architect and that Herefordshire Council has already had a lot of interest from some very big companies.

“It is hoped to appoint the winning applicant in the middle of November,” he added.

The winning team selected for the estimated £150,375 contract will draw up detailed plans and submit planning permission for an overhaul of the Wilton Road skate park which was first constructed 20 years ago and has now reached the end of its ‘economic life’.

The project will redevelop and upgrade the skatepark to create a landmark recreational facility for the town also featuring a new multi-use games area, BMX Track and other community facilities.

According to the brief: ‘Ross Skate Park has reached the end of its economic life and poses a health and safety risk to community users.

‘Overall improvements to the asset have been impacted by budgetary constraints, which have only allowed for minor maintenance / urgent requirements such as works to combat vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

‘The skate park has been in operation for over 20 years and the condition has deteriorated beyond the point of feasible maintenance and therefore requires significant upgrades.’

Bids for the latest commission will be evaluated on quality, on social value and on price.

The scheme has the backing of local MP Jesse Norman who has previously stated that the skatepark would be boost the facilities locally for the younger generation and added: “We have a vision for the redevelopment of the skate park in Ross which is no longer fit for purpose.

“The vision is for a modern concrete skate park alongside a multi-use sports area which can accommodate a variety of sports including football, basketball, hockey and netball, to name but a few.”