South Hill Skatepark Set to Proceed After Planning Appeal Rejected

Plans for a new skatepark at South Hill will move forward after an appeal against the development was dismissed.

The project was originally approved by the former Planning Committee in March, but the decision was subsequently challenged through a third-party appeal.

Independent planning inspector Fortune Gumbo reviewed the appeal, considering concerns including the adequacy of the consultation process, potential impacts on heritage assets, highway safety and the effect of the development on neighbouring residents.

After examining the issues raised, Mr Gumbo recommended that planning permission should remain in place.

The proposal involves the phased development of a skatepark and cycle park within the reversing bays at South Hill.

The first phase will see the installation of skatepark equipment, resurfacing, fencing and screening, soft landscaping and an accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities. The plans also include covered cycle parking, street furniture, lighting, CCTV and associated utility infrastructure.

Under the second phase, the skatepark equipment would be removed and the surface adapted to create a cycle park.