Selecting a suitable skateboarding site
When selecting a site the following should be considered:
- Before anything else consult: neighbours and potential users
- The area should be clearly separated (by barriers, fencing etc.) from any traditional play equipment
- It should be of sufficient size for the facility and any associated landscaping
- It should be easily accessible to users by bicycle, foot, and public transport (if there is any)
- It should be separated from adjacent housing or a buffer zone provided to reduce problems of noise. (Consult supplier on this). Noise levels at surrounding properties should not exceed 55 decibels.
- It should not be near trees (leaves of the surface can be hazardous)
- It should clearly be identified as "their space" for users. Adjacent seating is recommended and ideally there should be toilets nearby.
- It is essential that there is good access for emergency vehicles.
- You may need suitable road signage and possibly crossing facilities
- Hard surface access is desirable
- Try to orientate the equipment so that users are not dazzled by low sun in the spring and autumn
- If lighting is provided there should be some control on timing to prevent a nuisance to local residents.
Users should be encouraged to police and help train new users, discourage irresponsible users, and inappropriate use or vandalism.