PLANS for the redevelopment of a skate park in Bude have been delayed after changes to development requirements.

Bude-Stratton Town Council has announced that plans to improve the town’s skatepark has ‘encountered challenges due to changes in planning regulations.’

At the start of the year, it was announced that the skatepark at Crooklets Beach would be the site of improvements for developer CANVAS.

However, the council has now announced that works have been delayed due to a change in planning requirements, meaning the natural environment must be improved as part of any project being undertaken.

New rules, introduced in February this year require all developments to achieve “Net Gain” in biodiversity. This means the natural environment must be improved as part of any project.

A spokesperson from the council explained: “Unfortunately, the land intended for the skatepark has been assessed as having high biodiversity value, making it difficult to create equivalent or improved biodiversity elsewhere under the current design.

“While the original plans may not be possible in their current form, this doesn’t mean the project is over.”

The council has explained that it is reviewing the design and exploring how changes to the current layout might assist in meeting biodiversity requirements, and exploring other options by considering whether there are alternative approaches or sites that might work better within these constraints.

“Our aim is to find a solution that allows us to deliver a skatepark for the community while meeting the new environmental standards,” the spokesperson continued.

Following the setback, the council will now hope to engage with the local community via a consultation, to gain an understanding of what they want to see from the space.

“Early in the new year, we will hold a consultation with skatepark users and the wider community to discuss the options available and gather feedback. Your input will be essential in helping us shape the next steps and ensuring the project aligns with the needs of its users,” a spokesperson explained.

The announcement has come as a big blow to the community and the council, with the plans having been a long time ambition and hope for the area.

The spokesperson concluded: “We understand how important this project is to the community and are determined to find a way forward. While there are challenges, we remain optimistic that, with careful planning and collaboration, we can deliver a skatepark that meets both biodiversity goals and community aspirations.”

The council has said that more details will, be shared about the consultation and progress of the project when they become available.

It also thanked residents for their ‘continued support and patience’ as it navigates the process and tackles this setback.

However, despite the promise of progress, some residents have expressed their frustration with the council. One local said: “The council haven't done they homework and can't deliver.”

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