Controversial skate park to go-ahead

Youngsters in Whiteley have been battling for two years to get the park built on the recreation ground in the centre of the village.

The manufacturer has now revealed work is due to start in July and skaters will be able to use the facility by September.

Brendan Jarvis, the director of Rom-sey-based Gravity Engineering, who are behind the design and construction, said: "We have been given the go-ahead and now have the programme of works.

"We will have the project completed by September."

The £46,000 skatepark will be going up next to the Meadowside Leisure Centre following a second council U-turn.

When first mooted in October 2003, the parish council approved it.

Then last September the decision was overturned and the project rejected on the basis that the skatepark could create noise and be a nuisance to neighbours.

Four parish councillors who voted against the park are now being investigated by the Standards Board for England over potential conflict of interest because they live nearby.

The votes of Ron Finlay, Mike Anthony, Kate Chapman and John Hall are being looked at by the government watchdog. They face a maximum five-year ban from public office if the allegations are proven.

It wasn't until last month that the plans got back on track.

Whiteley parish councillors have now expressed surprise at the speed of the project.

Brenda Hatch, chairman of the recreation and general purpose committee, said: "I didn't realise the order had been placed and I'm glad to see it moving ahead.

"We need to get it in place this summer and it's reassuring to see nothing standing in its way."

Pat Wright, chairman of the parish council, added: "The skatepark is a joint effort between Winchester City Council, Fareham Borough Council and the parish council.

"It has been delayed a long time and now we need to see it completed."

A spokesman for Winchester council confirmed an agreement had been reached and when work starts in early July it will take ten to 12 weeks.