One Minet Skate Park

There were very few facilities for young people within Saffron Walden and the local area of Uttlesford, considering twenty five per cent of its population is under the age of nineteen. Out of the few facilities available, the majority were not accessible or free during daylight hours. In 2003, Saffron Walden Skate Group (SWSG) was formed by the town's enthusiastic young skaters, BMX bikers, bladders and adult volunteers. The group aimed to build a state of the art 1,000 square metre concrete skate park that was open every day and free.

The town council agreed, and planning permission was granted. SWSG recognized that the Americans are the experts in this field. Dreamland Skate Park builders from Portland Oregon came in with a good quote and a second to none reputation. SWSG appointed an English main contractor who could subcontract the work to the Americans. The main contractor set up the site, and supplied machinery and materials. The shotcrete pump, steel coping and other specialist items were researched and sourced by our group - "hands on" management by people with a passion for the project.

SWSG believes skating breaks down the boundaries between age, gender, race and class, whilst improving self-confidence. The skate park provides a purpose built environment for healthy exercise and serves as a meeting point for young people. The park attracts skaters from all generations, providing not only knowledge, but support for younger skaters. A reduction in petty crime and anti-social behaviour has already been noted in the town. The One Minet Skate Park is a resounding success with the locals and with visiting skaters.  All the skaters agree it is a world class park.