Edinburgh's skateboarders, bladers and BMXers are almost ready for 'take-off' as work on the brand new Saughton Skatepark approaches completion.

The facility, which will be officially opened later this Spring, brings to an end many years of campaigning by the Edinburgh Skatepark Project (ESP), which has been keeping future users of the skatepark up to date on progress via its website.

Images captured by the skatepark's designer, Dave Sowerby, show the facility's wide range of exciting ramps, jumps and bowls taking shape.

Councillor Deidre Brock, Sport Leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: "It's very exciting to see how well the new skatepark is taking shape down at Saughton Park. This brings to fruition years of tireless campaigning by the Edinburgh Skatepark Project, who I'm sure are champing at the bit now there are only a few weeks remaining before they can start using the new facility.

"The news that a leading skate hardware and clothing retailer is to set up shop in nearby Balgreen Road indicates, I think, just how popular the skatepark will be, before it's even open."

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Sam Paterson, spokesperson for the ESP, said: "After a long campaign with many disappointments along the way the ESP are delighted that with the Saughton skatepark, the people of Edinburgh will finally have a facility truly worthy of a capital city.

"We are very grateful for the support offered both by the local residents and the Council and really look forward to seeing a generation of young skaters, bmxers and bladers taking full advantage of the skatepark."

Ali Menzies, Chairman of Skateboard Scotland, said: "We at Skateboard Scotland are really happy for the city of Edinburgh. They have been in need of this facility for a very long time. We are glad that we were able to get involved at the design stage and help the ESP to produce a unique design for the park. We are all looking forward to seeing the finished article when it is ready."

The 2100m2 facility incorporates beginner areas, intermediate ramps and challenging competition standard features and is intended for use by children and beginners as well as more expert riders.

The final design for the skatepark was developed by the skaters and riders in the ESP group in conjunction with architects Urban Design Futures and skatepark designer Dave Sowerby.

Saughton Park has several grass football pitches, an enclosed running track, a play area and a new all weather full size 'third generation' pitch and sevens area. The skatepark is located to the east of the existing play area next to Balgreen Road and will be suitable for use by BMX bikes and rollerblades, as well as skateboards.

Details of the official opening of Saughton Skatepark will be reported to the next meeting of the Council's Culture & Leisure Committee on 27 April 2010.

(GK/BMcc)