YOUNGSTERS from Richmond could be the next in the region to be celebrating the opening of a skateboard park.

Northallerton and Norton in North Yorkshire have both agreed sites for similar facilities with Thirsk and Pickering among those also hunting a suitable location.

Now a planning application has been submitted for an area of Richmond's Ronaldshay Park.

If the project wins the district council's consent, it will end a seven-year saga fronted by a succession of teenagers, who have all been adamant that skateboards, BMX bikes and in-line skates are here to stay.

"It's not just a passing craze any more," said Ken Allinson of the YMCA, who is now spearheading the project.

"It's a serious pastime for young people these days and it's not going to go away."

The scheme also has support in principle from Richmond Round Table, the town and district councils, Richmond Town Centre Forum and the Community Education Partnership.

However, not everyone will welcome the proposals; some residents with homes near the park have already made it clear that they would object if a formal application was submitted.

Mr Allinson pointed out they will have their say when the facilities are put before Richmondshire District Council's planning committee.

However, he said the majority of the teenagers who have been pressing for the skate park have been mature in their approach and have accepted they will need to play a role in policing the new facilities.

"The youngsters have even helped choose the equipment we are proposing and had a say on the layout," he said.

In all, the facility is expected to cost in the region of £50,000.

It is hoped grants will come from Sport For All, charitable trusts, and Yorwaste as well as both Richmond Town and Richmondshire District Council. The children who would use the park have also pledged to raise some of the money themselves.

"I don't see finance as a potential problem," said Mr Allinson.

"Planning permission is more important as we cannot win grants without it.

"We will just have to keep our fingers crossed that the council is sympathetic.