A CAMPAIGN to replace a skatepark in Weymouth has ramped up - with the current site described as 'dangerous and outdated'.
Councillor Louie O'Leary, who represents Littlemoor and Preston, has launched a petition for cash to be pumped into the Littlemoor area so the current metal skatepark, just off Louviers Road, can be replaced with a concrete build, which will not overheat in the summer months.
The petition has been launched after an application for a £350,000 proposed skatepark and parkour for Weymouth’s Marsh playing fields was submitted for planning consent.
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Cllr O'Leary said: "I remember as a child when the current park was built and it was great at the time, but sadly now it's outdated, dangerous and not fit for purpose.
"The signs are rusted and broken. There's plans for new concrete parks at the Marsh and Radipole - and I feel if Littlemoor is going to be subject to large scale developments over the next couple of years then we need the investment to come with that.
"We have the foundation for a park we just need to replace the metal ramps with concrete ones.
The petition to replace the skatepark has gained support from fellow councillors Peter Dickenson, Ann Weaving, and Tony Ferrari as well as the local community and youth groups.
"The main concerns raised about the park by residents are the severe heat the metal reaches in summer making it unusable," said Mr O'Leary.
"It's slippery after rain, and there's a problem with smashed glass being left under the ramps.
"Littlemoor is set to gain an additional 700 houses in the next couple of years and also ranks as the county's third most deprived area."
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Cllr O'Leary is now calling for Weymouth Town Council and Dorset Council to set aside funds that are planned for the area to be used for the development.
He added: "Littlemoor, whether we like it or not, is growing and the infrastructure needs to be kept up with that.
"A new concrete skatepark would help get young people active and off their games consoles and also would be less maintenance in the long run.
"This would be great for Littlemoor."
For more on the petition, contact cllr Louie O'Leary on 07809 905412.
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