A PROJECT to deliver a wheeled sports park in Watchet can go ahead next year after the town council secured most of its funding through grant applications.

The council wants to redevelop an existing skatepark off South Road and has been working with Dorset-based design specialists Maverick, which has built skateparks all over the country, including in Wiveliscombe.

Wheeled sports parks are public recreational areas designed for activities such as skateboarding, scootering, and BMX biking.

They can feature various obstacles and installations such as ramps, ledges, rails, and bowls to accommodate different skill levels and ages.

The parks are aimed at providing a safe and dedicated space for people to practice and enjoy a wide range of wheeled sports, helping to promote an active lifestyle.

Town clerk Jo Grellier said she had been successful in obtaining £124,000 toward the £150,000 cost of the Watchet park, leaving £26,000 to be met by the council.

Councillors had previously earmarked £15,000 from the authority’s reserves and they agreed to a recommendation by Ms Grellier to move £11,000 from a play equipment budget to bridge the remaining gap.

Ms Grellier said £75,000 had been won from the Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund, and another £49,000 would now come from the Hinkley Point C community fund.

She said: “This allows the project to progress to the build phase.

“I have liaised with the contractors, who anticipate that works will commence in mid-March and aim to complete by late April/early May.

“This is a significant achievement for Watchet.”

A spokesperson for Maverick said: “The newly proposed facility will replace the existing space.

“The facility is currently located within a tarmac area, in a recreation space.

“There are playing pitches to the east and a play area to the north.”