There is hope that a dispute over the future of Norton’s Olympic halfpipe can be resolved at a meeting next week.
Norton City Council (NTC), which operates the skate park, has assured residents that there are no plans to close the Norton Road site. However, concerns have been raised about the safety and maintenance of the halfpipe, the cost of which is estimated to be around £ 60,000 to renovate.
#RescueTheRamp, supported by Malton and Norton Area Partnership (MNAP), young skaters led by Ryan Swain, Malton and Norton Lions and some city councilors are campaigning for the restoration of the halfpipe as part of a community project.
The skate park opened in 2004 on land rented from Fitzwilliam Estate with the Ryedale Distinct Council (RDC), responsible for maintaining and insuring the site, and the police, who conduct the weekly safety inspections.
The agreement provided for an annual budget for running the website with RDC contributions of £ 5,000 and £ 550 respectively from Malton and Norton City Councils.
In 2013, RDC transferred responsibility for the operation of the site to NTC, provided that NTC had signed a lease with the estate for at least four years, had maintained the equipment in accordance with RoSPA guidelines and had ensured that adequate insurance was maintained.
Two months ago, Malton City Council announced that it would withdraw financial support for the operation of the park.
The subject is now due to be discussed at a meeting of Norton City Council on Monday 17th May.
An NTC spokesman said, “Keeping equipment in good condition has been a recurring problem. Due to the dangerous state of decay, the halfpipe was closed by RDC in 2016/17 and remains closed.
“Since taking over the park in 2013, NTC has raised approximately £ 40,000 in grants to keep the equipment in good condition.”
The spokesman added that NTC had two problems to solve: “Does the council want to raise around £ 60,000 to renovate the halfpipe for the few skaters who have the skills to use it safely, or should funds be raised? to replace them with equipment for more general use?
Second, does the Council wish to take legal responsibility for the reopening of a standard Olympic facility in an unattended park open to children of all ages with a variety of equipment in every condition of repair?
Ryan Swain, who started the #SaveTheRamp campaign group, said he has made pledges of support from around the world.
“We have put together a plan to work with local contractors to refurbish the halfpipe at a cost that is well below the huge sums the city council is asking for the work.
“There is a huge surge of support to get the halfpipe back into operation and we urge NTC to listen to the local community on this matter and agree to the work being carried out as soon as possible.”
Cllr Di Keal, who supports the offer to save the ramp, said: “The council claims the halfpipe is too expensive to repair and its safety is in question, but in reality, with the help of local businesses at a It will be repaired at a reasonable cost and there is an obligation in the community to achieve this.
“Virtually all sports involve some element of risk – players do so at their own risk, and part of the excitement of some activities is that risk. During the operation in Norton there was no evidence of serious injuries on the half pipe. ”
Martin Brampton, chairman of the Malton and Norton Area Partnership (MNAP), said he was looking for an agreement on a sponsored project.
“The location is an ideal location for an institution that primarily appeals to young people. It is central to both cities and away from houses to avoid noise problems. It is currently in a run down. Apart from the actual features, however, a lot can be done to make the website attractive. While there are obstacles, the hope is that energy and enthusiasm can overcome them. The first task of a new team is to explore exactly what is possible.
“This includes recognizing problems and looking for solutions. Another part is the consolidation of offers for practical help. The aim is to create plans that can be put into practice for the benefit of all. The Olympic half pipe should be a great asset to cities. ”
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