CHIPPENHAM NEWS: A TEENAGER is helping to design Chippenham's new skatepark because he is fed up with youngsters having nothing to do in their spare time.

Scott Green, 18, is working with Bristol-based Wheel-scape to come up with a plan for the proposed skatepark at Westmead Playing Fields.

Borough Lands trustees have already given their blessing for land the charity owns at Westmead Playing Fields to be used.

Last week, Chippenham Town Council, the current tenants of the land, also gave the nod, giving Mr Green, of Goldney Avenue, Chipp-enham, more encouragement to press ahead with producing final designs on his computer.

He said: "I've been riding a BMX for four to five years and skateboarding is something I enjoy.

"A skatepark would keep a lot of people off the streets and give them somewhere to go."

Mike Connolly, of Skateinsafety, has been campaigning for a new facility in Chippenham since the skatepark in Monkton Park was closed in June 2002 following noise complaints.

He said the group had adopted a partnership approach involving youngsters, parents and residents to ensure the proposal was a success.

People living in The Paddocks have voiced concerns about the close proximity of the park to their homes, but tests carried out by North Wiltshire District Council showed noise levels generated by the site would be acceptable.

"We are working with everybody who needs to be involved," said Mr Connolly. "A group of young people have been looking at the designs they want and we have been working closely with the town council, Borough Lands and North Wiltshire District Council as well as listening to the views of residents.

"When the land at Westmead came up we had a site meeting with local residents and I anticipate future meetings with them as well. The noise issues were created by hollow metal ramps but this time they will be made of moulded concrete which is a lot quieter."

Young skateboarders came up with ideas for the new facility during two brainstorming sessions the last one being held at the beginning of January.

Cash for the new skatepark could be earmarked at the district council's budget meeting next month and it is estimated that £80,000 would be needed to start work. Extras, such as a security fence, would cost about £11,000 more.

The proposed site, which was one of around 20 possible choices for the new venue, is an unused area of grassland, close to the waterworks.

Other options, including The Bridge Centre and an empty warehouse on the Bumpers Farm industrial estate, were ruled out.