The City of Launceston will undertake a major upgrade of the Ravenswood Skate Park this year at a cost of $300,000 including a $45,000 grant from the Tasmanian Community Fund.
The project will represent a significant upgrade to the skate park’s ageing infrastructure, and follows consultation sessions held with Ravenswood community members and Launceston skaters last year, in partnership with consultants Ramp Wizard and Concrete Dreams.
Stage one of the Ravenswood Outdoor Community Space redevelopment project will see the construction of a dedicated new concrete skate facility, complete with a cantilevered ramp, grinding rails, a quarter pipe and grinding ledges.
The work is expected to be complete mid-year, weather permitting.
Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said Council was also working on a second stage design proposal for the park, which would see the construction of a new nature-based playspace, the construction of a basketball half court and other improvements, to be undertaken next financial year.
“Over the past decade, skate parks in areas like Waverley and Mayfield have closed or been decommissioned after the expiry of leases and other matters beyond Council’s control.
“But skateboarding continues to be a popular activity in Launceston and we want to cater for that; the Ravenswood facility is clearly a good candidate for upgrade and we think we can deliver a fantastic new park for skateboard, scooter and BMX enthusiasts to enjoy.
“The Council already owns and maintains a popular skate park facility at Royal Park and we want to work to cater for this sporting pursuit as best we can, just as we do for myriad other sports like football, cricket, soccer, netball, croquet, athletics, hockey, swimming, BMX racing, rugby, softball, and many more.”
Plans are underway for the development of a regional recreation strategy that will see Launceston and neighbouring councils working together with the State Government to address open space and sporting and recreational infrastructure needs on a regional basis.
