How did we pick the possible locations for the skatepark?

The four possible locations for the new West Melton skatepark, which we are currently consulting on, are all on Council recreation reserves and were identified after considering a range of factors.

These include whether the sites are visible from public and or private land, free from dense vegetation, clean and free from most hazards, well oriented for sun and shelter and close to other facilities.

Other factors include traffic impacts, suitability for future expansion, and how well the site complements the surrounding area.

Features of the four sites

West Melton Domain

· good space to accommodate the community skate park activity

· very open site with little established planting

· close to shops, and public toilets.

· could become a popular destination for the community and increase use of the domain

· plenty of space to ensure the skatepark is not too close to residential boundaries

· this site is on a main highway therefore access may be an issue, however there is possibility of future traffic lights and further reduced speed

· site is well away from residential properties and is close to the community centre for passive surveillance.

· The site is on a main highway, so safety and access may be an issue. However there is the possibility of future traffic lights and further speed restrictions.

The reserve on West View Crescent joining West Melton Primary

· moderate distance to shops (300 m) as well as other activities (play equipment, green space)

· nearest residential dwellings adjacent the reserve and on opposite side of road

· good shade and shelter through established trees around reserve

· not on a major traffic route

· located adjacent to school

· The site is more removed from other public facilities than other sites, is smaller in size than the other locations and is in a quiet residential street.

Brinsworth Reserve on Brinsworth Avenue

· well away from residential properties.

· very close to town centre and shops (92 m) and other facilities including play equipment, green space (400m)

· nearest residential dwellings are on opposite side of road

· good shade and shelter through established trees

· view of the site from the main road is slightly obstructed by vegetation, but this may be lessened through pruning or removal of some trees

· the site is relatively undeveloped. There is residential housing on one side developed, the other has a play centre and an empty section. The primary school is situated across the other side of the main road

· The site is on a main road, so safety and access may be an issue. However there is the possibility of future traffic lights and further speed restrictions.

Retford Common Reserve, Rotherham Drive, Retford Common and Brampton Drive

· plenty of space available

· few close neighbours, so should not create undue disturbance.

· very open, no other youth attractions nearby

· one half of the reserve is for stormwater retention

· limited visibility into site due to buildings and established trees. The lack of visibility from the street dependent on chosen location of the park

· not on a major traffic route. Increased traffic could be a concern

· some distance from shops and school (650m).