A SKATEPARK in Bude could be set for a facelift following the submission of a new planning application.

Bude-Stratton Town Council, alongside Canvas Spaces Limited, has applied to refurbish the existing concrete skatepark based at Crooklets.

According to the application (PA26/00656) , the current facility is heavily used by the local community; however, is in need of some love following a number of repairs having taken place since its creation, meaning it ‘is now approaching the end of its functional lifespan’.

On top of this, the council has expressed that the site’s ‘layout and features also reflect an outdated style of wheeled‑sports design and no longer meet the expectations or needs of modern users’.

As a result, the council, alongside designers Canvas Spaces, are hoping to revitalise the space.

The application explains: “The project involves the removal of the existing ramps and obstacles and their replacement with a new concrete riding surface with a contemporary selection of new ramps and obstacles.

“To improve drainage, access and safety of the facility, a portion of the existing concrete retaining walls will be removed. Any remaining walls will be refurbished to ensure compliance with the relevant British safety standards.

“The proposed works aim to revitalise the skatepark by delivering a modern, inclusive, and durable facility suitable for skateboarding, BMX, scootering, and wheelchair motocross (WCMX). All redevelopment works will take place entirely within the footprint of the existing skatepark, ensuring no expansion into surrounding areas.

“The new design has been developed collaboratively with Bude–Stratton Town Council and the local community through a series of consultation sessions. Feedback from these sessions has directly informed the layout and features to ensure the facility reflects local needs and preferences.”

The consultation asked local residents for their thoughts on the redevelopment of the space. Of the 1,796 people who responded, 1,370 supported plans, while 157 expressed their opposition and a further 269 stated that they supported the improvements but did not feel as though this was the correct location.

Following the application’s submission, a spokesperson from Bude-Stratton Town Council said: “Bude-Stratton Town Council is pleased to announce that a planning application has been submitted for the redevelopment of the existing skatepark, marking an important milestone in the long-running project to improve facilities for local skaters.

“Plans to extend the skatepark were previously paused after ecological surveys identified a rare type of dune grassland on the proposed extension site, which is protected under national planning policy. Building on that land was not possible.”

However, despite changes and delays, support for the development is clear, with the application already receiving a number of expressions of support.

One commenter said: “The existing skate park is in poor repair and of low quality in terms of its antiquated design.

“The design proposed has benefitted from the excellent consultation conducted with Friends of Bude Skatepark community group and is well supported as a result. It will provide a vastly enhanced facility that will [...] bring health benefits to all who use it; and create a nucleus for community cohesion.”