New Eastbourne skatepark vandalised with graffiti

The new Eastbourne skatepark currently under construction has had vandals trespass onto the site and cover it in graffiti this week.
New Skate Park under construction in Eastbourne (Photo by Jon Rigby) SUS-200130-110328008New Skate Park under construction in Eastbourne (Photo by Jon Rigby) SUS-200130-110328008
New Skate Park under construction in Eastbourne (Photo by Jon Rigby) SUS-200130-110328008

The park, which has been funded by Eastbourne council, was due to open in April but the coronavirus pandemic pushed the date back. And Eastbourne council said entering the site could delay any future completion date.

A council spokesperson said, “Graffiti is a criminal offence. The cost of removing graffiti in the UK is met by taxpayers and runs into hundreds of millions of pounds. Anyone found responsible for graffiti will be prosecuted.

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“The stunning new skatepark remains under construction and people should not enter the site.

“Damage caused through unauthorised access to the venue could delay the completion of the building work being carried out.

“The skatepark is a fantastic council venue and will be enjoyed by generations of young people, many of whom have already played a part in its design.”

Sian Hutchinson, from Eastbourne and mother of professional scooter rider Dante Hutchinson, has called on the extreme sports community to respect the site as they do not ‘want to lose’ the park.

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Sian said, “I understand graffiti is part of the culture but tagging and hateful graffiti brings division. At the moment no one should be in there because the fence is up.

“The important thing is though, we should be encouraging kids to use the skatepark. We do not want to lose the park or create negative vibes.”

Sian offered the idea that a professional graffiti artist could get in touch with her to organise working with groups of youths who are interested in the art.

The skatepark will replace Gooden Skatepark, which shut suddenly in 2016 amid safety concerns, and will be built a short distance away from the old site.

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The park is being built by Clark and Kent Contractors, which is the same firm that constructed a specialist BMX track for the 2012 Olympics.

A council spokesperson said the firm has “a worldwide reputation” and will “bring unrivalled experience and expertise to Eastbourne”.