Absolutely delighted this week so see that precise plans are finally underway to get the long-neglected Richard Taylor Memorial Skate Park back to its former glory.
Our esteemed Vale of Glamorgan Council has bombarded our social media with some nifty drawings and a link for us residents to have our say.
Mind you, I had to laugh at our elected officials style. You click on the link and then you have all the faff of setting up an account before you can put your two penneth in.
Why do our Council always say they are keen to communicate and then make it as awkward as possible.
It’s like when you had to give your Council Tax number before you could ask their contact centre a question – remember that!
Mind you, it’s still progress and you can have your say here: The Knap Community Skatepark | Participate Vale (valeofglamorgan.gov.uk)
Picking back up the positive though, its great to see the Knap site firmly in focus.
In March 2022, the new Skate Park got the go ahead after the £40k funding target was reached.
Respect to Richard’s family and friends who campaigned relentlessly.
The Welsh inline skating and freestyle skiing champion, who put Barry on the map with his skating skills, died after a freak accident in 2004.,
And the memorial to him fell into a heart-breaking health and safety hazard in dire need of refurbishment and repair.
For me, it’s the perfect place for; would-be Sky Browns to show off their sharp skills, bold Barrians to feel optimistic about making their mark in this now Olympic sport, or just gives our racing residents, of any age, the chance to have some fun in the fresh air.
It also, I’m told, causes no chaos for nearby residents, is well-respected as a mark to Richard’s memory, and is much-used by skaters and spectators alike.
What’s not to love?
I’ve certainly waxed lyrical about this before, and was straight in to have my say on the Consultation.
My asked for three suggestions were a modern, vibrant Skate Park that: has different areas for different abilities and ages so that it is inclusive to all.
Makes room for decent spectator seating, with room for anyone strolling past who wants to watch as they take in the summer sun or winter breeze.
And some light touch policing to ensure the site stays solely with a community hub vibe.
What do you think.
Mrs SVJ
The Voice of Our Community
Sue Vincent-Jones, blogging as Mrs SVJ, is a Barry born journalist, editor, and activist. She writes about Barry – and her life in the wider world, through the eyes of a, quirky and queer, local girl done good.
Written exclusively for the Vale’s newest newspaper, and digital platform, The Glamorgan Star, her latest ‘Passing Comment’ column, an addition to the infamous Sue’s Views collection, can be found here.
Mrs SVJ, Barry’s Boldest Blogger, can be contacted here.