Boyley Skate Park at White Rock (www.hastings.gov.uk).

Skate park extension opens in time for Boyley Jam

The £61,000 phase two extension at the Boyley Skate Park in Falaise Road, Hastings, is now open. The extension, funded by contributions from Safer Hastings Partnership, Hastings Borough Council, Boyley Trust, Sussex Police and Veolia Environmental Trust through the Landfill Communities Fund, will host its first event – the Boyley Jam – on Sunday 1 September, writes HOT’s Chris Cormack.

The design includes a capsule or cradle, shaped like a bowl with an overhang – the first of this type to be built in the UK and attracting experienced skaters from the town and beyond. BMXers are expected to pack the park for competitions and demonstrations at the 12th annual Boyley Jam, a BMX event held every year in memory of local rider, Richard ‘Boyley’ Ball, a well-loved and influential local BMXer who sadly passed away in 2002. The event raises money for the Boyley Trust charity.

The aim is to develop an internationally celebrated skate park which will be a lasting legacy for future generations, a vision which has resulted in the decision to approach the development in phases – phase 1 having been the challenging bowl, transitions and cradle feature.  

Cllr Emily Westley, lead member for leisure and amenities, said:

“What better way is there to announce the opening of the phase two extension to Hastings Boyley BMX Park than with the Boyley Jam! Every year we look forward to this prestigious event that brings together local, regional and sometimes international talent and, although the date has had to be put back, we know it will be as packed as usual. The park was already a popular well-used facility for our local BMXers and skaters but now, with this extension, so much more is on offer.

“This new street section is suitable for all levels of ability, which is something asked for within the extensive consultation we carried out. Thanks must go to all partners for their contributions towards phase two. We look forward to seeing it put to the ultimate test at the spectacular Boyley Jam on 1 September 2013 from 12 noon and I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s newest talent, including some up-and-coming female contenders.”

Paul Taylor, executive director of the Veolia Environmental Trust, added: “It is great to hear that this project is now complete and I hope that Sunday’s Boyley Jam is a success. We fund community projects throughout the UK and it is one of our priorities to support facilities like this one, which provide safe, exciting spaces for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy outdoor activities and develop their skills. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Chief Inspector Phelps of Sussex Police commented: “Our town has a massive BMX and skateboarder community, and to know that work on phase two of the skate park complete is welcome news indeed. So many different people have had an input into this project, from teenager BMXers to local councillors. This park really is reflective of partnership agencies and communities working together. Good luck to all of you involved in the Boyley Jam on Sunday.”

The Landfill Communities Fund (LCF) receives its funds from operators of landfill sites, who collect tax on each tonne of landfill for HM Treasury.  Of this tax revenue, 6.8% can be used to support a wide range of environmental projects near landfill sites.  Through the LCF, over £1 billion has been invested in UK projects.

To find out more, contact Keith Duly on 01424 45189, email kduly@hastings.gov.uk  or you can join the discussions via the independent Hastings Skate Park Direct Action Group Facebook wall.

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