Skateboarders get €2m to ramp up proper facilities

OVER €2 million is to be spent on skateboarding facilities to give young people a safe space to ramp up their skills. After years of teenagers hanging around town parks and squares seeking spots to show off, the Government yesterday announced a nationwide plan for proper facilities.

“I had initially earmarked a sum of €1m for a pilot skateboard scheme for 2005 but, in light of the number and quality of submissions received, I am pleased to say that I have approved the 21 projects selected and have increased the funding allocation to over €2m which I expect will be spent over the next two years,” Environment Minister Dick Roche said.

One of the projects to benefit by €100,000 was South Dublin County Council’s venture in Lucan.

Councillor Derek Keating said: “This will be giving young people more places to go to where they will have a chance to meet others in a social setting, it is important from that perspective as well.”

South Dublin County Council has already allocated €150,000 in this year’s budget towards the facility.

Some 21 projects in 21 different local authorities were given the green light.

Cork County Council was granted €100,000 for a skateboarding park in Great Island, Ballincollig and Kerry County Council was given €150,000 for a centre in Tralee. Skateboarders in Athlone were also celebrating with a €150,000 grant for Westmeath County Council, while €150,000 was given to Wicklow County Council for a park in Greystones.