On Thursday, September 19th, the sun shone as Tramore’s newest outdoor amenity, the Skatepark on the Lower Prom, was officially opened by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy.
The high-quality facility was constructed in concrete and combines elements of bowl and street plaza features, designed with the specific needs of skateboarders in mind.
Cutting the ribbon, the Mayor said, “I’m delighted to officially open this top-class facility. The skatepark is a wonderful addition to Tramore as it provides a welcome, free, fun, active space for all to enjoy.
“Set on the Prom and looking across at the sea, this skatepark is the icing on the cake for the town of Tramore. Tramore combines natural beauty, fun, family-friendly amenities, and opportunities for healthy pursuits seamlessly. The addition of the skatepark to the town is yet another asset that will make Tramore an even more inviting and welcoming destination for young people, locals and tourists alike.
“Waterford City and County Council will continue to invest in facilities such as the skatepark, to encourage healthier pursuits and a more sustainable lifestyle for all.
“I’d like to commend the Environment Department, particularly Project Manager Brian Murray, and SEO Dawn Wallace, for bringing this high-calibre amenity to Tramore, in a very timely manner and for giving full consideration to the aesthetics of the structure.”
Concluding the Mayor said, "Finally, I would like to wish all our skateboarders, young and old, the absolute best as they make full use of this brilliant new facility. May it be a place where skills are honed, friendships are formed, and lasting memories are made. From skating across the rails, perfecting a kickflip or an ollie, to working on tricks in the air, there is something for everyone here. The design of this park allows for creativity to develop and for you to work on your own unique style."
The skatepark was designed with input from the local skateboarding community and the feedback has been very positive. Those in attendance, including 4th class pupils of Tramore Educate Together NS and their teacher Katie McAuliffe, enjoyed a skateboarding demonstration by local skateboarders Peter Breen, John Twomey, Heather O' Connor, David Hartley and Taylor O'Brien.
Dawn Wallace, Senior Executive Officer, Waterford City and County Council said, “It was important that the views of those who will use the park be taken into consideration, and that input was invaluable throughout the process. By consulting with the skateboarding community, we were able to deliver a practical, yet top-class skatepark that is accessible to all ages and all abilities.”
Specialist companies Browne Brothers Site Services Limited and Vulcano Skateparks were engaged to undertake the detailed design and construction. The Skatepark was constructed in a sustainable manner, applying the principles of the circular economy in terms of reuse of materials and life cycle costing. Any stone or concrete removed from the original skatepark was brought to a recycling facility where it will be crushed and reused as fill material on future projects.
Waterford City and County Council secured funding of €202,371 from the Community Recognition Fund from the Department of Rural and Community Development with additional funds of €90,924 provided by Waterford City and County Council.
