During the official opening event on 15 October, the chairman of the town council, Councillor Keith Wilkes said, “We hope it will offer something for everyone to enjoy and attract enthusiasts of all abilities.”

The original skate park, built in 2003, had become expensive to repair and maintain and the council agreed that it should be removed and replaced with a new facility.

The layout of the new park was designed and constructed by Canvas and designer Russell Heideman, who worked with local users to produce the optimum features, was at the official opening event on 15 October along with other colleagues.

Cllr Keith Wilkes cut the ribbon in the presence of Kirsty Main, National Lottery funding officer Dorset; Canvas; members of the local user group Louis Pulford and Lee Cooper and the councillors’ working group.

The event organised by the town council, proved a big hit with demonstrations and competitions run by Canvas.

Councillor Alex Clarke said, “It is a fantastic facility for the youngsters of West Moors. It is a joy to watch people getting exercise and fresh air.”

Jill Clarke added, “It look like a work of art in itself. I should think people will come from far and wide to use it.”

The event also brought together some of the original campaigners who fundraised for and established the first skate park in West Moors in 2003. They were pleased to hear the commemorative plaques recognising their achievement were going to be reinstated.

Andy Skeats, who was facilitator back then, gave credit to the council “for fulfilling the needs of West Moors again.” Mo Shearing added, “The new skate park is amazing and fully accessible for all.”

Before cutting the ribbon and declaring the new park officially open, Cllr Wilkes said, “The skate park is important because it gives young people, and even the not so young, a safe place to practise any type of wheeled sport. We hope all users will use the skate park with consideration and ensure it provides an exciting opportunity for all for many years.”

Grants were received from the National Lottery, Veolia Environmental Trust, Dorset Council Leisure Development Fund, Tesco Bags of Help (Groundwork UK) and these were combined with reserves from West Moors Town Council. Bids for funding were submitted by town clerk Judi Weedon and her assistant Aime Fawcett and Cllr Wilkes acknowledged their hard work towards achieving the end result.