Upgrading Stratford Skatepark – Pt 1

https://www.change.org/StratfordSkatepark-1200Signatures-StroudCouncil Evening All, Please take a minute to sign and share our first petition we've just launched! A few more bits of behind the scenes detail if interested - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/liamgparsons_stratford-skatepark-asset-audit-feasibility-ugcPost-7469471620718444544-Ro66/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAipGYEBs5M84ea4FqVUwDK71xOicSs3Oak Much appreciated, Liam & FoSS Crew

Stratford Skatepark Asset Audit & Feasibility Study 2026, independently researched by Activity First CIC and supported by Wheelscape Ltd. Smooth concrete. A few well-placed beginner obstacles. Space to move. That's it. An investment that would serve rollerskaters, scooters, BMX riders and skateboarders alike ... from their first push to their 40th birthday. The study sets out a clear, evidence-based case for investment in Stroud's only skate facility and three costed pathways to deliver it. Over 100 (face to face) consulted including primary school kids, college students, veteran skaters and volunteers. Everyone agrees Stroud deserves better. The community's ask is straightforward. In the words of FoSS members: "A spacious, simple, low-level park would be best for the largest number of users from beginner level to experienced." Smooth surfaces. Inclusive by design. With participation in skating and riding at record levels nationally, the opportunity to deliver meaningful, low-barrier physical activity provision in Stroud District is clear. We hope the report speaks for itself. ............................... Here's a summary of the key points from the Stratford Skatepark Feasibility Study 2026: What it is: An independent audit commissioned by Friends of Stroud Skateparks (FoSS) and carried out by Activity First CIC, assessing Stratford Park Skatepark's condition and future investment options. Current state of the park: · Built in 2008 using in-situ concrete - now dated and near end of life · The concrete surface is borderline unacceptably rough; the tarmac perimeter is beyond repair and dangerous · Missing key features like quarterpipes, rails, and transition elements · Poor spatial layout creates collision zones and excludes beginners · Raised areas breach safety standard BSEN 14974 (no guardrails) Community consultation (108 people across schools, college, and skaters): · All age groups felt the park failed to meet their needs · Injury risk and crowding were top concerns · Strong demand for smoother surfaces, beginner-friendly features, and more space Three investment options proposed: · Short-term refurbishment - resurface the perimeter, add beginner features: £100k–£150k · Partial rebuild - above plus redesign of main park layout: ~£300k · Full replacement - demolish and build a destination skatepark: £650k–£700k Broader case for investment: Small wheeled sports participation is at an all-time high nationally, and Stroud District is identified as a notable "blackspot" for quality skate provision across its 175 square mile area.

As promised we've written a longer form article here on the latest - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/q4-2025-friends-stroud-skateparks-foss-news-liam-parsons-ieng-mimmm-nhole So a big thank you from all of us at Friends of Stroud Skateparks first and foremost. In summary: From our Skate Jam AGM and Spacehive crowdfunder to strategic planning and council engagement, it’s been a big year for Friends of Stroud Skateparks. ✅ £6k raised for feasibility study (tentative completion date Mar 2026) ✅ Business Case submitted to SDC ✅ Public Q&A at Sept 25th SDC Committee ✅ Creative collabs & community energy ❌ Curb proposal declined (pending SDC Play Strategy) We’re pushing forward with inclusive, community-led infrastructure. Thanks to all who support the movement! #StroudSkateparks #FoSS #CommunityLed #SkateparkDesign #YouthEngagement #InclusivePlay #SDC #SkateJam2025

Fantastic news reaching a significant funding milestone as one of the winners of the Severn Trent NeighbourGood scheme! Of the 40+ projects shortlisted for public voting we now have confirmation that we snagged the top spot for Gloucestershire and notably one of the only skatepark projects on the long list. Alongside this we've now surpassed 100 backers - with nearly 30 projects to date using Spacehive's StroudFunding platform created by Stroud District Council (SDC) we join only a handful of amazing projects that have seen this level of public support. As we enter into the final days of this initial crowdfunder a big thank you first and foremost! As we've mentioned previously we're preparing a longer form past, present and future update but in the mean time here's a short form press release we've drafted for the final push for donations :) "Friends of Stroud Skateparks (FoSS) aim to improve each and every local skatepark in the Stroud area for all users, however they choose to ride. We will begin with Stratford Park skatepark. We are in inclusive group of volunteers with over a century or more of skateboarding experience combined. Our membership represents the differing user groups and demographics that the park cater for. FoSS began as a way of safeguarding any local money spent on skateparks, as all too often skateparks are built or retrofitted by non-specialist contractors. Our first goal is to raise funds to donate quality new obstacles to the disused tarmac space next to Stratford skatepark, providing additional space and a new area for beginners. Stratford skatepark has been used continuously since 2008 and the cracks are showing. If you agree with us donating new obstacles to improve Stratford skatepark for all, please follow our Instagram @friendsofstroudskateparks and if you are able to, donate £2 to our crowdfunding project. A £2 donation does much more than pay towards new obstacles. Every donation is a vote showing interested parties that there is growing support for our aims. If you have ever used Stratford skatepark, know someone who does, and support our idea for donated improvements (supported entirely by us volunteers) please engage with our Instagram and crowdfunder if you are able." Much appreciated, Liam Parsons Friends of Stroud Skateparks (FoSS) Volunteer Community Chair (VCC)