PLANS to redesign and improve a Weymouth skatepark have been approved.

A motion was put forward to Weymouth Town Council for a report to be produced on the redesign, development and installation of a new Littlemoor Skatepark which will be presented to a future meeting of the Environment and Services Committee.

In the proposal, Cllr Ryan Hope wrote: "Since at least October 2021 residents in Littlemoor and the surrounding areas have been calling for a new or redeveloped skatepark in Littlemoor."

A petition was launched by Dorset Council Councillor Louie O'Leary and it was reported in February 2022 that hundreds of people had signed a petition to revamp the metal skatepark with more suitable material.

However, this matter had not previously been presented to Weymouth Town Council.

Cllr Matt Bell said: "It is really important that we promote sports activities around the town.

"I know a lot of young people in that area and there certainly is a need for facilities for young people to burn off their energy, socialise, enjoy themselves and all the things that are important for growing up."

Cllr Peter Dickenson said the proposal would be a "fitting tribute" to the late Councillor Tony Ferrari, the Littlemoor and Preston Councillor who died in November 2023.

Cllr Dickenson also requested that an amendment was added to the proposal, calling for litter bins to be replaced at the skatepark.

He said litter had been a "constant issue" at the skatepark. 

The amendment was approved by councillors.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Louie O'Leary, Dorset Councillor for Littlemoor and Preston, said: "That skatepark has been there for 25 year. In that time Wyke Regis and Radipole have had new concrete ones.

"I grew up in Littlemoor and it always felt like an area that felt left out.

"It is the last one with old fashioned metal.

"I started a petition three years ago and we initially had the support of the ward members, but one of the ward members asked to have their name removed from the petition.

"Since then we have had meetings with Dorset Council and developers about trying to find a solution.

"I welcome the plans for a new skatepark I just wish it would have been supported three years ago."

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the motion and a report will be brought to the town council after the elections in May.