CHIPPENHAM'S skatepark is to stay in Monkton Park despite furious demands from nearby residents that it be closed.

North Wiltshire district councillors have taken the controversial decision to keep the skatepark open, but install new, quieter equipment.

The council was facing closing the facility and had found two possible sites at The Ham and Lover's Lane, both in Chippenham.

But on Thursday night, councillors abandoned their previous decision to close the existing park.

The about turn came after they were told officers had discovered a manufacturer of concrete skatepark equipment which they claim will be much quieter.

Councillors were told noise levels would be drastically reduced to 12 decibels by removing the jump box.

They also heard moving the skatepark would cost up to £115,000, while installing new equipment would cost £60,000.

But councillor Toby Sturgis said the park should be moved.

He said: "I did not believe there was any question of the skateboard park remaining there."

Philip Allnatt, who represents the Monkton Park area, said: "It is a damn good facility but this is not the right place for it.

"I believe the evidence we have that we can keep the noise down is very weak."

The decision has infuriated Monkton Park residents.

Richard Taylor, of the pressure group Friends of Monkton Park, said: "Noise is not the only problem and reports have ignored social issues.

"Monkton Park was previously a tranquil area and the skateboard park brings unacceptable behaviour, drugs and gangs of youths.

"We have deliberately not been making any complaints because we were under the impression it was going to be moved. I am disgusted by the double standards of some people on this council and this issue concerns the health and well-being of residents."

The skatepark has had its opening hours severely restricted since the noise problem was identified.