THERE are currently only 17 skateboard venues within the Greater London area, many of which - like the one beneath the National Theatre on the South Bank - are "adopted" venues which give only some of the facilities that skateboarders need to practise their skills in this popular pastime.
Speaking to the young folk there I was told that some regularly travel four or five miles from their homes.
With the nearest skateboard venues in Hanwell similar distances away there is obviously the need for a skateboard park properly constructed and having all the features demanded of this sport here.
With BMX now an Olympic 'sport' there is no reason why skateboarding should not also be embraced.
Bay 66 skateboard park is situated under the Westway section of the A40/M40 and makes use of an area which could be used for little else, and we are fortunate to have a similar site just waiting to be developed.
The A4/M4 at Brentford already has a basketball court beneath one of its spans.
One of the next two or three spans could accommodate a skateboard park with no limiting factors and with all the known features required to hone the skills of the participants.
The wide vehicular entrance from Boston Road opens into the large car park, beyond which lies the aforementioned basketball court and on to the sites awaiting developing.
It is on two bus routes, 100 yards from another and is less than half a mile from both Boston Manor Piccadilly Line station and Brentford station. Local residences need not be more affected by noise, which could be contained by appropriate structures.
The skateboard park would have the added attraction of partial protection from the elements afforded by the motorway above.
Toilet facilities and floodlighting would add to what could become a very popular venue, while those making use of the venue would, to a degree 'police' it. There would be excellent access for the police and emergency services.
Joint participation between Ealing and Hounslow councils would be necessary for this to be a huge success.
S GCARTER
Hanwell
