A BID to build a new arena for youngsters into skateboards, roller-blades and BMX bikes has run into resistance.

Richmondshire District Council is keen to support the project, pledging to play a role in the hunt for both a suitable location and for cash to cover the costs.

Two sites have already been earmarked as possibilities, including near the swimming pool, in Richmond, and adjacent to the Co-op supermarket on the town's Friary Field.

But, although both are ideal as they are within easy reach in case of an emergency, some people with homes nearby are resisting the proposals.

The youngsters who have been lobbying the local authority for the facilities have been praised for their maturity - but residents are concerned the new park will mean noise and disturbance and could still become a magnet for troublemakers.

"It is to be expected, wherever we look," admitted council spokesman, Mark Thorpe. "However, that does not mean we simply give up on a scheme which young people have been requesting for years."

As a result, the authority will not be taking debate on possible locations any further until it has found an organisation prepared to lead the scheme.

"Although we can help to find the right site, we cannot take the project forward in the long-term," Mr Thorpe explained.

"If we were to build one in Richmond, then we could find other towns requesting similar facilities, which we would not be able to afford.

"We have a meeting next week with a Richmond-based organisation, which we hope will take on issues like insurance and maintenance and front formal applications for grants. Once these issues are sorted out, then perhaps we can look again at possible sites."

However, Mr Thorpe said no formal decision would be made on a location without proper consultation.

"A planning application would have to be submitted, which would mean anyone affected by the project would have an opportunity to have their say," he said.