Long-awaited plans for a new skateboard centre in Rayleigh could finally become a reality.

Rochford District Council's planning committee will decide whether to give the go ahead for the latest scheme for a site in King George VI playing field, Eastwood Road.

For the past three years, Rayleigh Town Council has been trying to set up a site to get young skateboarders away from the Mill Hall area in Bellingham Lane and the High Street.

However, the two councils have not been able to agree a site in the past leading to delays in providing the much needed facility.

The latest scheme has been put forward following discussions between district council officers and the town council.

However, there have been objections to it from the chamber of trade and around 28 residents in the town.

There were concerns over noise, potential for vandalism and litter and the loss of car parking space.

Mr Scrutton recommended the scheme should be approved and said: "The hardstanding for skateboarding equipment is a much needed facility in Rayleigh."

He said it was not considered the proposal would lead to an unacceptable level of harm to the surrounding area.

Published Wednesday, May 28, 2003

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