Skate park rolls into action after launch

The Wheeled Sport Facility, in Houghton-le-Spring, was opened on Saturday by MP Fraser Kemp.

The launch event was attended by funders, councillors and young people.

It is hoped the park will encourage hard-to-reach and disadvantaged teenagersto take part in sport and improve their health, bring people together and strengthen community spirit.

Its supporters will work to ensure long-term activity at the site and will provide kit and equipment for people to take part and make the most out of the new facility.

Councillor Mel Speding, Sunderland City Council's member for culture and leisure, said: "This is a much-needed facility, which will provide the young people of Houghton-le-Spring and the surrounding areas with a safe and enjoyable place, with a new focus to spend spare time with friends and help towards leading an active lifestyle."

The project, which involved consultation with local young people, received £50,000 from Barclays Spaces for Sports.

Further funding of £25,000 was received from the Youth Opportunity and Youth Capital Fund.

The skate park has also been supported by Groundwork East Durham, a local regeneration charity, and the council.

In 2005, the council received a petition from 203 young people requesting wheeled sports facilities in the Houghton-le-Spring area. The authority has worked closely with a core group of young people, parents and local beat officers throughout the project.

Barclays has also provided additional funding of £20,000 to develop and sustain activities at the site over three years.

The aim is to introduce new or develop existing activities, to increase participation and provide training for volunteers to support local service delivery.

From that funding, up to £2,000 will be available for the purchase of kit and equipment.

Barclays representative Stella McRae said: "Our aim is to have a significant and long-lasting impact on local communities and grassroots sport throughout the UK for many years to come."