Lets get a new skate park for Northwich

The environment

While the primary goal of the skate park was to enhance recreational opportunities for the community, it also brought several environmental benefits: Repurposing of Land: The new skate park replaced an ageing, hard-to-maintain facility, turning an underused space into a clean, modern, and durable environment that requires less frequent repair and maintenance — reducing the need for additional materials, machinery use, and associated carbon emissions. Encouraging Active Transport: By promoting skateboarding, scootering, and biking, the facility encourages young people to choose more active, non-motorised modes of transport — helping to reduce local vehicle use and associated air pollution.

The local economy

he new Sheeran Skate Park has provided a valuable boost to the local economy in several ways: Supporting Local Jobs: The construction project created temporary employment opportunities, from planning and groundwork to specialist construction by Wheelscape. Local suppliers and tradespeople also benefited during the build phase. Attracting Visitors: The modern, high-quality facility is drawing in skaters and families from surrounding areas, increasing footfall in Vickersway Park and the wider Northwich town centre. This benefits local cafés, shops, and small businesses. Raising the Town’s Profile: Investment in modern leisure facilities like this helps position Northwich as a progressive, youth-friendly town — which can support longer-term economic goals like attracting new residents, businesses, and investment. Encouraging Youth Engagement: Providing young people with a free, accessible place to be active and social helps reduce anti-social behaviour and supports positive development — lowering potential public service costs over time and helping nurture future contributors to the local economy.

Volunteering, jobs & education

The development of the Sheeran Skate Park had a positive impact on local volunteering, employment, and educational engagement: Volunteering & Community Involvement: The Northwich Skatepark Campaign — led by local residents Ross Milne, Matthew Corker, Kevin Pack, and John Dalton — involved years of dedicated voluntary effort. Their work included community outreach, partnership building, and advocacy, which inspired wider public support and local pride. Ongoing involvement from groups like the Northwich Skate group also supports future event planning and mentoring opportunities for young people. Job Creation: The planning, demolition, and construction phases supported temporary employment for skilled workers, including those from the specialist skatepark contractor Wheelscape. Local contractors and suppliers were also involved in various elements of the build. Educational Opportunities: The skate park serves as an informal learning environment where young people can develop physical skills, discipline, and perseverance. It also opens up opportunities for youth-led events, coaching, and future volunteering roles that encourage leadership and teamwork. Future events like the planned "park jam" will provide platforms for learning event planning, media, and community organising skills.

Arts, culture & heritage

Celebrating Local Heritage: The project has deep cultural roots in Northwich. It honours over 30 years of local skateboarding history — beginning with the original mini ramp installed in 1990 after community campaigning. The same local campaigners, now in their 40s, led the charge for this modern facility, making it a living tribute to the town’s skateboarding heritage. Creating Space for Urban Culture: Skateboarding is a vibrant part of youth culture and self-expression. The park offers a dedicated space where skateboarding, scootering, and BMX — all recognised as cultural sports — can be practiced safely and proudly. It supports a culture that values creativity, movement, and community. Platform for Future Artistic Expression: The skate park design allows for future integration of public art, such as murals, graffiti art zones, or community-designed features. These elements often reflect local identity and give young people an opportunity to contribute artistically to their town. Community Storytelling: The story behind the park — including the campaign, partnerships, and community collaboration — is now part of Northwich’s evolving local narrative. It highlights how grassroots action and shared vision can shape the town's cultural landscape.

Activity, health and leisure

Encouraging Active Lifestyles: The skate park provides a free, accessible space for young people and adults to engage in regular physical activity, including skateboarding, scootering, and BMX riding — all of which support cardiovascular health, strength, balance, and coordination. Promoting Mental Wellbeing: Outdoor activity in a positive, social environment has proven mental health benefits. The park offers a safe space for people to meet, connect, and express themselves, reducing isolation and supporting overall wellbeing. Providing Leisure for All Ages: The design of the park accommodates a range of ages and skill levels, making it a family-friendly destination that promotes intergenerational leisure. Whether learning for the first time or refining advanced tricks, users of all backgrounds can enjoy the space. Offering a Healthy Alternative to Screen Time: In an age dominated by screens and indoor entertainment, the skate park offers a physical, creative and engaging alternative that gets young people moving outdoors. Supporting Long-Term Recreation in Northwich: As a permanent addition to Vickersway Park, the facility enhances the town’s leisure offering and helps secure long-term opportunities for active recreation in a safe and well-maintained setting.