Review Date: July 2027

Introduction

Skateparks offer unique opportunities for development and learning through active play, fostering skills such as balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. They provide a space where young people can build social skills, connect with peers, and engage in positive interactions. Additionally, skateparks encourage community engagement and can serve as a constructive outlet that helps reduce anti-social behaviour.

Vision

Our vision for the skatepark is to create a space in Ponsmere Valley where people of all ages from Perranporth, the surrounding community and visitors, can engage in healthy physical activity within a vibrant, social environment.

Objectives

To ensure the safe, inclusive, and effective management of the skatepark by providing a well-maintained, welcoming environment that supports positive participation, encourages community engagement, promotes healthy recreation, and delivers a high-quality experience for all users.  To achieve these objectives, the Parish Council will:

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and well-managed skatepark environment through regular inspections, maintenance, and prompt resolution of any hazards or repairs.
  • Implement clear operational procedures, including opening hours, site rules, user guidance, and emergency response arrangements.
  • Encourage inclusive participation by welcoming users of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
  • Work closely with the local skate community to understand needs, gather feedback, and support community-led activities and events.
  • Promote responsible use of the facility through education, signage, and positive engagement with users.
  • Deliver a programme of activities, coaching sessions, and events that encourage participation and skill development.
  • Ensure the café and associated facilities contribute to a positive user experience by providing healthy food, drinks, and a welcoming social space.
  • Establish effective partnerships with local organisations, schools, the youth group, and community stakeholders.
  • Monitor usage, collect feedback, and review performance to identify improvements and ensure the facility continues to meet community needs.
  • Promote environmental sustainability through responsible waste management, energy efficiency, and environmentally considerate operations.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety, safeguarding, and operational standards.

Opening Hours

The facility is for use during daylight hours only and is not lit at night. The site is observed by the police (who are located at Chyanhale), street marshals (during July and August only) and parish council staff (Monday to Thursday). Clear signage is in place to state the hours of use.

Signage in Place

Clear signage states safety and usage requirements: No dogs, safety equipment to be worn at all times, no glass, no alcohol or drugs, no steel pegs, no graffiti, respect other park users, don’t litter.  There is also emergency information on the sign and contact details to report any issues. There is also signage to state that motorcycles and mopeds are prohibited.  Signage is also in place requesting use during daylight hours only and respect of local residents.

Inspections

Daily inspections will cover graffiti, litter, any new pathways formed naturally by users, and landscaping damage. Any safety and maintenance issues highlighted to be remedied in a timely manner. RoSPA’s guidance recommends routine checks to prevent injury and manage surface conditions effectively, helping prevent mud buildup, broken structures, or debris. In addition, an independent annual safety inspection is carried out by RoSPA.

Refuse Management

Litter bins and recycling bins are provided and regularly emptied by Biffa.  Additional litter picking at the site is undertaken by the Grounds Team as needed.

Graffiti

Any graffiti is quickly removed by the Grounds Team with appropriate PPE and training.

Accessible Toilet

An accessible toilet has been provided at the skatepark which is cleaned regularly by Kernmaid.  Daily checks of this facility are carried out by Grounds Maintenance staff and opening/closing hours will align with the new café.

CCTV

The parish council has committed to ongoing CCTV provision and included for maintenance expenses in its annual budget.  PPC is looking into upgrading CCTV in this area and moving camera OSP006 to provide greater coverage.

Complaint Management

Due to the skatepark’s location in close proximity to residential properties, the Parish Council recognises the importance of maintaining positive relationships with neighbouring residents and the wider community. A complaints log is maintained to record any concerns, feedback, or incidents raised by residents, visitors, or other stakeholders. All complaints will be reviewed promptly, investigated where necessary, and appropriate actions taken to address issues and minimise any ongoing impact. Records will be monitored to identify recurring themes and support continuous improvement in the management and operation of the skatepark.

Community Engagement

The skate user group, Perran Skate Collective works with the Parish Council to ensure appropriate use of the facility and to support skaters. The group provides feedback to the council and communicates any areas of concern.

Environmental Management

The Parish Council is committed to ensuring the skatepark is managed in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner, while enhancing the surrounding area and supporting local biodiversity. The facility will be operated with consideration for the natural environment, promoting positive environmental outcomes alongside community use.

PACE will continue to work closely with the Parish Council on future landscaping improvements, including additional tree planting and the introduction of wildflower planting to enhance biodiversity, improve the appearance of the site, and create valuable habitats for local wildlife.

Environmental management measures will include:

  • Maintaining the skatepark and surrounding areas to a high standard through regular cleaning, litter collection, and responsible waste management.
  • Supporting biodiversity through appropriate planting schemes, including native tree species and wildflower areas where suitable.
  • Working collaboratively with local stakeholders to identify opportunities for ongoing environmental improvements.
  • Encouraging sustainable practices among users, staff, and visitors, including recycling and reducing waste.
  • Protecting existing landscaping features and ensuring future improvements complement the character of the surrounding area.
  • Considering environmentally responsible materials and practices when undertaking maintenance, repairs, or future development works.
  • Monitoring the condition of planted areas and landscaping features to ensure they remain healthy, attractive, and beneficial to wildlife.
  • Promoting the skatepark as a positive community asset that balances recreational use with environmental stewardship.

Environmental Management

  1. Drop in Café – Tenant in place to provide healthy food and drinks. The café also provides oversight and engagement with the local skate community.
  2. Acoustic Fence Art Project: Clerk to arrange an arts project with local schools to enhance the acoustic fence’s aesthetics.
  3. Future Phases: Following a public consultation, Full Council has recently approved additional recreational development at this site. A pickleball court and balance/bouldering equipment is planned in late 2026 early 2027, subject to securing additional funding.

This structured approach aims to balance accessibility, safety, and environmental protection, aligning with RoSPA’s recommendations for skatepark safety and regular maintenance.

Monitoring

The management plan will be reviewed July 2027.