Skaters trying out the open section of the park on Wednesday evening. PHOTO/GRACE PRIOR
GRACE PRIOR
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Half the new $1.3 million skatepark in Masterton was ready for use yesterday, with the rest officially opening in the second half of February.
Masterton District Council community facilities and activities manager Corin Haines said contractors Hunter Civil had tidied up the site on Thursday, finishing work for the year.
He said about half the revamped site was now ready for use.
“Last week’s days of rain did not allow completion of all planned finishing work before the end of the year, and half of the site will remain fenced off.”
Haines said the area would look great, but it was crucial that the fenced-off area was not used before Hunter Civil completed it in the New Year.
“Any damage caused now will be something that cannot be repaired, and that would be a shame after we are so close to fully opening a fantastic facility for the community.
“We want people to enjoy the exciting, revamped sections and keep an eye out to ensure the skatepark is looked after.”
Impatient skaters damaged the surface of the skatepark in late November, just weeks out from its official opening.
Hunter Civil issued a statement on Facebook condemning skatepark users who were jumping the worksite fences and skating on the concrete, which had not been cured yet.
“We are putting in a huge amount of effort to get as much of this park open by Christmas, and if areas get damaged by people skating, then we simply won’t be able to open.”
The government awarded Masterton District Council [MDC] $1.3m to fund the project last year. Construction began in June 2021.
A council spokesperson said members of the Hunter Civil team were working long hours throughout the week to deliver the project before Christmas.
Reckless behaviours such as trespassing and skating on uncured surfaces were disappointing, the spokesperson said.
When Hunter Civil returned to the site on January 10, Haines said they would also complete a pump track on the southern part of the skatepark – an extra feature added to the project.
He said an official opening was planned for the second half of February, including competitions for all levels.
