Council has welcomed funding for a concept design to upgrade the Bright Skate Park.
The State Government last week announced that Council was successful in securing a $30,000 grant through the 2022 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Council will contribute a further $10,000 to the project, and will engage with skate park users and the broader community to design a facility to suit a range of ages and abilities.
Alpine Shire Mayor John Forsyth welcomed the funding as an important step toward a much-needed upgrade to the park.
“We know that many people in our community are passionate about improving this facility, which is ageing and clearly in need of an upgrade,” he said.
“Skate parks are an important part of connected, active communities.
“Recent works to Myrtleford and Mount Beauty skate parks have helped promote healthy activity and skills development - it’s fantastic to see that Bright has received this funding to take the first step towards an upgrade.
“We’re looking forward to working with our community, and local young people in particular, to design a park that meets their needs.”
Inspired by skate park upgrades in Myrtleford and Mount Beauty, a group of local skaters contacted Council in 2020 to discuss funding opportunities.
A petition calling for the upgrade to deliver a larger footprint with more features for both advanced and beginner users was signed by over 1200 people and accepted by Council at the December 2020 Council Meeting.
The Bright Skate Park Upgrade aims to increase participation and physical activity in the community, support liveability and provide an economic boost.
The anticipated completion of the concept design is April 2024.
Council will keep the community informed on next steps for this project, including opportunities for park users and community members to share their views.