Greens MLA for Brindabella Laura Nuttall will today move a motion to bring about long awaited upgrades to the Tuggeranong Skatepark.
"The Tuggeranong community has been more than clear; After 26 years the Tuggeranong Skatepark is in desperate need of an upgrade", said Miss Nuttall.
"Whether it be a petition lodged in June with well over 700 signatures or the countless submissions to Assembly Inquiry into Skateboarding and Skateparks, all representatives for Tuggeranong can see these upgrades are what the community wants and needs."
The motion introduced by Miss Nuttall will call on the government to commit to a comprehensive redevelopment of the skatepark, with work to begin no later than 2027.
"The Government has already indicated they will consider opportunities in the area, but now is the time for action," Miss Nuttall said.
The motion also calls for the government to consult with the existing Canberra Skateboarding and BMXing community on the upgrades.
"Skateboarding is already incredibly popular and has a great community behind it in Canberra, which we can see from the popularity of the Belco Bowl Jam and the other iconic skating locations like Erindale Brick Banks.
"The best way for the government to get this done is by working with those who currently use these facilities and know what is needed.
"Skateboarding is an incredible sport for young people-it happens in free local spaces, it's social, it's athletic and it's supported by an active, generous community ready to share their wisdom and celebrate improvements.
"Young people are running out of free recreational spaces to actually just be young people and enjoy themselves. So we've got to protect those spaces where we can, and embrace and encourage the sports that keep us connected-like skateboarding.
"With the incredible gold medal success of Aussie 14 year-old Arisa Drew at the recent Olympics, this popularity will only increase and Tuggernites need the facilities to get on board."
