Supporters rally for indoor skatepark in Great Yarmouth

Skateboarders coming together to shape plans for a new indoor skatepark in Great Yarmouth following the closure of the one in Main Cross Road.Sam Harrons, one of the group leading the project.Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk © 2016)

Around 100 people turned out to the St George's Theatre in King's Street, Great Yarmouth, on Saturday to discuss ideas for a new facility.

The old indoor Park Warehouse, in Main Cross Road, closed down at the end of 2015 and the site is now being converted into a trampoline park.

Sam Harrons, 25, who helped organise the event, said there was a lot of support for a community-run park.

'People have been putting down some incredible ideas that we would never have thought of alone.'

Mr Harrons, who lives in Newtown, added: 'This place would be beyond just a skatepark. It could hold training workshops, community projects and creative events.'

Sam Avery, who owns skateboarding shop Drug Store in Norwich, said: 'One of the issues for indoor skateparks is what you do in the summer months. Who wants to pay money when it is nice outside and you can skate outside for free?'

The 38-year-old, who grew up in Gorleston and now lives in Norwich, added: 'There is an idea to combine a new facility with a music or arts venue, which could be a way to make it work all year round.'

Tom Richards, 25, a community development worker at Voluntary Norfolk, said there was great demand for an indoor facility.

'One of the things we can do to help is show the organisers where and how to get funds from.'

Nathan Hawdon, 31, who lives in Gorleston, said: 'You can't skate outdoors in the rain. Give the kids a place to skate indoors and they won't be out on the streets.'

To sign the petition, go to: www.chn.ge/1ZNziXiDo you have a story about a community project? Email george.ryan@archant.co.uk