SKATERS are in-line for a new £57,000 park just weeks after the current skatepark opened for business.

Last night, councillors approved plans to move Swindon's first official skatepark at the Oasis Leisure Centre to a bigger site nearby.

And they admitted that they had massively underestimated demand.

During busy times, as many as 120 skaters flock to the park, forcing many to rise at the crack of dawn to guarantee a decent session on the ramps.

Now it is hoped they will be honing their skills in pastures new at the back of the North Star leisure centre by late October.

CCTV cameras will be installed and fencing will be erected to prevent vandals moving in.

The move has attracted scorn from some opposition councillors, however.

Coun Maureen Dilley (Lab, Covingham and Nythe), said officials should have got it right first time.

"The right decision first time could have saved some of the £57,000 expenditure planned to address the problems," said the shadow lead member for Social Services.

"This could have improved or extended the initial provision."

But opposite number, Justin Tomlinson, who has fought for months to get better facilities for skaters, hit back at the claims.

He said: "Just 14 months ago when I took this post, the council was considering whether or not to provide skateboarders with facilities.

"I am proud of the fact that we now have a place for young skaters to go.

"Unfortunately, with the summer holidays fast approaching, we were forced to act quickly.

"It was not easy gauging public opinion many schemes across the country have failed.

"We have proved that by talking to youngsters we can make things happen."

Coun Garry Perkins, lead member for education (Con, Shaw and Nine Elms) dismissed suggestions that skating is a passing fad.

"Skating is now an internationally-recognised sport and it will not be long before it's an Olympic sport," he said.

Speaking outside the Civic Offices in Euclid Street, jubilant Ritchie McGarvie, 15, said: "This is great news. I go to the skatepark nearly every day to ride my BMX and I have to be there by 8am because it's just so busy."

Campaigner Eric Smith, who is a father of two, said it has been worth the wait.

"Parents such as myself have been campaigning for nearly five years to get a skate park in Swindon," he said.

"Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, which has provided the equipment for the current skatepark has been brilliant, but the demand is such that we need more room."

Kevin Shoesmith