CAMPAIGNERS have unveiled plans for a new purpose-built skatepark in Cattedown.

Led by Nick Marker, an established Plymouth skateboarder and businessman, the campaigners are hoping to secure a long-term lease for a 6,000sq ft warehouse, based on Commercial Road.

More than 500 signatures from young skaters – and their parents – have been collected in support of a planning application which is expected to be submitted within weeks.

Nick claims the group has gained "verbal permission" to open at the site by its owners, and that the idea has gained the support of Plymouth City Council and the police.

A fundraising drive is now under way to fund the transformation of the site, which is situated between Denman's Electrical Ltd and a building firm. Campaigners are hoping to officially open the site as a skatepark in October 1.

Nick, aged 35, said: "There is a desperate need for this sort of facility in the city. There is a skatepark at Central Park but, from what I have heard, a lot of the young people have been targeted by thugs. They are crying out for a dedicated safe and supervised facility which will open in a good central location.

"They are also after better facilities to improve their tricks. We have received a lot of support so far for this project from skaters, their parents, the city council and the police."

The skatepark will boast a ramp complex and a street course as well as many other features for BMX riders. It will also include a coffee shop, and provisions for urban dance and art groups.

Organisers hope to develop a 6,000sq ft outdoor area for skaters adjacent to the indoor site within 18 months.

"It is still early days but we are looking to the future," Nick said.

Nick's Prime skate store based in Ebrington Street is leading the fundraising drive to fund the transformation of the warehouse into a dedicated skateboarding facility. The total cost of the refurbishment is likely to cost up to £15,000.

A series of events are being planned by Prime, and the store is seeking sponsorship through skate and BMX firms across the country.

Campaigners are also urging Plymouth building firms to support the venture. The site will be the third skatepark opened by Nick and his skater campaigners.

Nick opened the Domain Skate Park in a former 3,000sq ft warehouse at Enterprise Park on the Moorlands Trading Estate in Saltash in 2004, which closed in 2006 due to lack of funds.

He was also largely responsible for opening the hugely successful Flatspot indoor skatepark at Clare Place in Coxside. The nationally-renowned skatepark was forced to close in February 2001 when its three-year lease expired.

For further information on the skatepark project call Prime on 01752 224360 or visit: www.primeskateblog.blogspot.com.