Funding from the Community Safety Partnership enabled the skatepark to be redeveloped into an inclusive community space with bespoke skateboard-shaped seats, additional lighting, a youth shelter and picnic benches for everyone to enjoy, whether they can skate or not.

The Key People, part of East Kilbride Universal Connections Youth Forum, were involved in applying for the funding and worked closely with the local community to make the project a success. A participatory-budgeting approach was taken to the decision-making, with votes cast by representatives from the local community on the type and colour of new equipment and where it should be located in the park.

To celebrate the opening and showcase the new skatepark, a free community event was arranged by The Key People. More than 350 children, young people and families enjoyed a host of activities including giant inflatables, skate and scooter lessons, competitions, arts and crafts and live music from East Kilbride’s Universal Connections very own award-winning Mobilize Music Project.

Although the weather was dull on the day, the smiles of all those who attended, including several partners from the Community Safety Partnership, brightened up the day.