PLANS are in the pipeline for a re-designed skatepark in Tavistock, which could see increased use of the community facility.

The metal skate park in Benson Meadow near to Pixon Lane was designed by Taviskate and completed for public use by the end of 2005.

But BMX rider Chris Hardy, who moved to Tavistock two years ago, said he found the skate park to be hazardous, noisy and felt that the area needed a total re-design.

Along with a small group of people, Chris has been working with users of the park on proposed new ideas for Tavistock's skatepark and he believes that they are 99% set on a design.

'The current skatepark doesn't work — not to the best of its ability,' said Chris.

'I understand that a facility was needed, but now I hear that not a lot of people go there as it's not enjoyable.

'All we want is to provide a better facility for the Tavistock people.'

Chris added that users of the park, from BMX riders to skateboarders, found there were a number of issues over the metal design: 'It is slippery when wet and retains heat when the weather has been warm, meaning people don't want to use the park even in nice weather — on some days you could even fry an egg on the metal ramps!

'It's also incredibly noisy.'

He added that the problems detract from the usability and fun of the park, for which it was originally intended.

Chris has been working with companies to design a concrete park, which is deemed a safer material, is maintenance free, will keep the noise down and is useable all year round.

The proposed re-design of the skatepark, which is on town council-owned land, could cost £250,000.

Chris said: 'It's not going to cost the council anything and I am filling in funding applications from various organisations.

'We are 99 percent complete with the design — it is now a matter of finding the money to be able to then provide a better public facility which has been designed with everyone in mind.'

Petition sheets for the re-design have been in the public domain for around a year and have been signed by BMX bike riders, skateboarders, inline roller bladers and those using scooters.

The full proposed designs and petition are on show at the Dartmoor Cycles/Lifer BMX store at West Devon Business Park.

General manager for Tavistock Town Council, Wayne Southall, said: 'Tavistock Town Council looks forward to receiving some designs in relation to improvements to the existing skatepark.'