Local youngsters can get their skates on and 'wheelie enjoy' themselves thanks to a new £185,000 extension to Renfrewshire Council's skatepark in Linwood.

A new purpose-built concrete bowl has been added to give skaters and BMX riders the speed and momentum they need for stunt jumps.

The facility has also been provided with floodlighting, to allow winter use up to 9pm. CCTV cameras have also been installed.

The original skatepark was built in 2002. Subsequently, users asked if the park could be expanded, and improved to deter anti-social people from congregating there.

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Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Environment and Infrastructure Policy Board, said: "This is an excellent example of Renfrewshire Council listening to the people who use a facility and working to meet their needs.

"It also highlights our close and effective partnership with Strathclyde Police and how we work to give young people safe facilities where they can make the most of their leisure time."

Inspector John Laing, Strathclyde Police, added: "The local community identified the need for more activities for youngsters as a high priority for tackling antisocial behaviour in and around the Linwood area. The skatepark extension is a welcome development and has placed an emphasis on providing a safe environment for such activity."

The Linwood Extreme Sports Squad worked closely with the Council and Strathclyde Police’s Community Policing Section on the project. The cash for the extension was provided by the Big Lottery Fund's Fair Share Scheme, administered by the Scottish Community Foundation.

(GK/KMcA)