A ROW has broken out over the decision to delay the reopening of Redditch Skatepark.
The revamp was agreed in 2021 when a new 12-year lease on it was signed.
The agreement between the borough council and the Redditch Wheels Project released £21,000 from the Sport England Community Asset Fund, with match-funding from the Margaret Westwood Trust (£10,000) and the Co-Op Community Fund (£4,600).
The development aimed to bring the 25-year-old park up-to-date and, in 2021, the owners said they would be utilising modern materials but keeping the layout of the park to a traditional format.
Work has continued since then, with the opening scheduled for April 26. However, the Redditch Wheels Project, which is leading the development, has announced a delay, following a number of ongoing issues.
In a statement, the charity explained it had recently sought legal advice regarding a situation connected to the project.
They added: “The decision to delay the event was carefully considered and based on a number of factors, including ongoing build challenges due to weather, safety considerations and our commitment to delivering a high-quality reopening for all users.
“We recognise this decision may be disappointing, particularly for those involved in organising or attending the event.
“We remain appreciative of the time, effort, and passion contributed by individuals across the skatepark community.
“We are clear that any engagement with our staff and volunteers must remain respectful at all times.
“They play a vital role in delivering this project for the benefit of the wider community.”
Community members who held events at the skatepark over the years have criticised the management of the redevelopment.
Bradley Mullholland has claimed that unsafe MDF has been used, sections have rotted and thousands of pounds have been wasted while the park stayed closed.
He also claimed the events licence due in January was never submitted. He arrived to work to find materials not there or no one working on planned days.
He said: “This is gross mismanagement of community funding and a betrayal of trust.
“Redditch’s young people deserve better than being let down by people who care more about their own gain than creating a safe facility.
“Action sports in the UK are bigger than ever. BMX and Skateboarding are Olympic sports.
“This is a pathway to real careers, mentorship, and opportunity.
“Redditch has been robbed of that for too long.”
The charity hit back, saying it welcomed appropriate scrutiny and was confident its decisions had been made responsibly, transparently, and in line with the governing document and trustee duties.
It said the focus remained on completing the park to a safe and high standard and reopening it for the benefit of the whole community.
