PLANS to build a new skateboard park in a Hampshire town are leaping ahead.

Members of Skate Lymington have joined forces with a company that will produce the final design and help secure the rest of the necessary funding.

Hythe-based Gravity Engineering has already devised a draft design for the £170,000 facility at Woodside Park, Lymington.

As reported in the Daily Echo, the existing metal skatepark at Woodside will be demolished and replaced by a smoother and quieter concrete version.

A Skate Lymington spokesman said: “After a tendering process it was agreed that Gravity offered the best package and most closely met the requirements of the brief.

“All the design teams came up with great ideas and presentations but town councillors and local users were impressed by Gravity’s approach. More importantly it was felt that Gravity was providing something special and unique.”

Matt Totczyk, who is spearheading the project added: “The chosen design offers something to everyone using the skatepark.

“It will make a unique venue on the south coast, unlike any other skateparks being built locally.”

Mr Totczyk praised Steve Cridland, who was Lymington’s town clerk until he moved to another local authority last month.

He said: “We’re so grateful for the fantastic support received from the town council and in particular Mr Cridland.

“It’s hugely exciting that this has taken a significant step closer to being realised and we are all looking forward to working with Gravity Engineering.”

Having already raised £120,000 enthusiasts are now in the process of trying to obtain the rest of the cash needed to fund the project.

A further round of consultation will be carried out before the final design is approved.

Mr Totczyk added: “The new facility will be on the existing site at Woodside Park and will cover the same footprint. It will be constructed from concrete, which will create a much quieter skating surface as well as looking far more appealing.”

An event taking place at Woodside Park on April 11 at noon will enable locals to view the proposals and air their views.

If all goes well the new skatepark could be up and running this time next year.