Royston skatepark is now back open to the public after an extension and revamp.

North Herts Council has transformed the skatepark at Newmarket Road Recreation Ground with the help of landscape architects at Groundwork East and skaters who use the park.

The skatepark has been extended on two sides, more than doubling the existing footprint.

The new street area includes hubba ledges and a grind rail, flowing into an open bowl/halfpipe suitable for all abilities - with an extended quarter-pipe for more experienced skaters.

Royston skatepark before the revampRoyston skatepark before the revamp (Image: North Herts Council)

Last year skaters who use the park were invited to complete a survey and attend consultation events, and a design team of interested users was created to ensure the renovation met their needs.

One skatepark user, Brooker Lawman, said: "It’s excellent having the extension, it really breathes new life into the place.

"I’ve spent years skating! Too many skateparks are being knocked down or left without maintenance these days, it’s sad to see because there really is nothing quite like companionship of the skateboarding community."

Royston skatepark after the revampRoyston skatepark after the revamp (Image: North Herts Council)

Another, Rhyia Clark, said: "It’s awesome to see so many different and new people at the skatepark.

"The renovations haven’t just created a better place for us to skate, but it’s created new friendships and a more positive atmosphere in the area.

"It’s especially nice to see more girls and women coming along too!"

Brooker Lawman using the skateparkBrooker Lawman using the skatepark (Image: North Herts Council)

The skatepark's reopening coincides with the world's youngest professional skateboarder and GB's youngest-ever Olympic medallist, Sky Brown - who won bronze at age 13 in the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 - competing in the Women's Park Skateboarding in Paris on Tuesday, August 6.

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Cllr Mick Debenham, executive member for environment, leisure and green spaces, said: "This has been a fantastic community project, working closely with local users, many of them young people, to ensure the upgrade was what they needed and wanted.

"We know the facility is of great value to the local community and are pleased to have it open again for the summer holidays."

The upgrade cost £100,000, and was funded through contributions from a local housing developer - known as a section 106 agreement.