Hundreds of residents joined riders, families and project partners on Saturday to celebrate the official opening of the new Leg O' Mutton skatepark in Cobham.
The opening JAM event showcased the new facility with rider demonstrations, competitions, music and activities, giving local skateboarders, scooter riders and BMX enthusiasts the chance to put the skatepark through its paces and visitors the opportunity to see the facility in action.
The skatepark has been delivered through a partnership between Cobham Village Partnership, One Cobham, Cobham & Downside Residents' Association, Elmbridge Borough Council and Surrey County Council's Your Fund Surrey. The facility was designed and delivered by Maverick Skateparks, working closely with local riders and residents whose ideas helped shape the final design and create a skatepark tailored to the community's needs.
Speaking at the opening event, Martin Elbourne, who led the funding and delivery of the project, thanked everyone who helped bring the skatepark to life. He said:
I am proud to be associated with a facility which will provide free, long-term physical, mental and social wellbeing benefits to the younger generation in our community. Our new Skatepark, whose design was led by users and built by a recognised industry leader, Maverick Ltd, was only possible through the funding secured from the Surrey County Council Your Fund programme and Elmbridge Borough Council - to both organisations I express my thanks on behalf of the community.
Councillor Simon Waugh, Elmbridge Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Commercial Strategy, said:
It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the new skatepark. This is a great example of a community-led project that will give young people a high-quality, inclusive space to be active, develop new skills and spend time with friends for years to come.
Since opening two weeks ago, the skatepark has quickly become a popular destination for local riders and is expected to attract many more visitors in the years ahead, providing lasting benefits for the community.
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