Youngsters jump to give upbeat reaction to skatepark proposals

CITY leaders today said they have received a "very positive" response to plans for a new £750,000 skatepark.

The proposals for Saughton Park would end years of wrangling over the location of Edinburgh's main skatepark, after the council was forced to abandon plans for Inverleith Park.

The latest scheme, which went out for consultation with skaters and residents earlier this year, was drawn up after the Meadows was also ruled out.

The council has also proposed a viewing area for the 70 by 30m park, artificial lighting, CCTV cameras, and special "anti-skate" surfaces on surrounding paths.

The park would be developed in tandem with other new sports facilities in Saughton, as well as the refurbishment of a play park recently damaged by vandals.

City sports leader Deidre Brock said today that feedback had been positive. "We will continue to consult locally on issues such as skatepark design, play facilities and on any concerns raised over the past few months with a view to submitting proposals to planning in the near future."