Earlier this year, we launched a conversation about skateparks to better understand our skating community. We wanted to hear the community's ideas and key considerations for two new skateparks in Thirroul and the Wollongong CBD.
Between 28 March to 24 May 2024, we heard from almost 800 people! We've now reviewed your feedback, and we wanted to share what we heard.
"It's great to see so many people, especially so many young women, get involved in this process and have their say. Our community have been calling for new skatepark opportunities for a while and have jumped in and shared lots of feedback on specific skatepark design ideas," Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
"Our community were clear that they want to make sure Council located these new skateparks in high profile locations which are supported by inclusive amenities. At the same time, we received strong feedback from our skate community pushing for an inclusive design that catered to people of all skill levels and abilities.
"Shade, access to water and good lighting were the top three design elements that our community said Council should consider when designing these skateparks. People also said that they thought modern skateparks should be visually appealing and culturally reflective of the community in which they reside.
What we heard
- Not everyone who wants to use a skatepark, plans on using a skateboard. While most respondents preferred skateboards, some people also said they'd like to ride BMX bikes and scooters.
- Most people don't go alone. Most people who visit skateparks go with their friends and family.
- Locations must have good passive surveillance with food water and toilets nearby.
- People want the new skateparks to better cater for beginners and people of all skill levels.
- More than half of respondents currently get to skateparks by either walking, cycling, or using public transport.
- Shade, lighting, seating, and access to drinking water were the top favoured elements that people said should be considered in the final design.
- Feeling safe in these spaces is important and people said they wanted these spaces to feel open and visible.
- People want the skateparks to be visually appealing and culturally reflective of their area.
For Wollongong CBD, most people who shared feedback said they would like to see a larger skate park that caters for everyone, from beginners through to expert and professional skaters. Having sufficient space would enable learner riders to safely practice, separate from more experienced riders. A larger facility could also create potential opportunities to host events and competitions.
The preferred style for Wollongong was a Street and Plaza style of design that features elements such as flat bars, round rails, ledges, and manual pads.
In Thirroul, the community favoured a mixed design that included both a Street and Plaza while incorporating some kind of bowl feature. In both locations skaters are asking for unique and creative designs that provide a mix of different obstacles for them to explore.
What happens next?
The information we've gathered will be used to support the design process for the new skateparks. It will also support us as we continue to review potential locations in Thirroul and Wollongong.
