Construction of the Saughton Skatepark is due to start this weekend following the appointment of the project's main contractor, Clachan Construction Ltd.

The company has extensive experience in this area, having built concrete skateparks throughout Scotland including Glasgow (Kelvingrove Park and Drumchapel), Perth, Falkirk and Dundee.

Construction on site is set to begin on August 15 and is scheduled for completion in early Spring 2010, depending on weather conditions during the construction period.

Saughton Park will remain open to the public throughout the project. Every effort will be taken to minimise the disruption to park users, and to ensure there is no damage to the existing mature trees in the park.

Councillor Deidre Brock, Culture and Leisure Convenor, said: "It's great news that work is soon to begin on Saughton Skatepark.

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"Our sports team has worked very closely with the Edinburgh Skatepark Project to create the best possible facility and I know skaters are very excited that these plans are now finally coming to fruition.

"The addition of a skatepark and improvements to play facilities will help make the Saughton area a genuine sports hub in the city. The sheer range of different activities on offer will benefit people of all ages, helping them to stay active and boost their health and wellbeing."

Sam Paterson, spokesperson for the Edinburgh Skatepark Project (ESP), said: "The ESP is delighted that this will be the last summer that the skaters, BMXers and bladers of Edinburgh of all ages will be without a purpose built skate facility. We feel that with the completion of the Saughton skatepark Edinburgh will have a facility truly worthy of a capital city. It's been a long wait!"

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

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 will be 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.

(GK/BMcc)