Major expansion set for Gatton Skatepark

The Gatton Skatepark will soon undergo a major expansion, thanks to funding from the Australian Government.

Council was successful in securing grant funding from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), which will bring to life a host of upgrades to the facility.

Federal Member for Wright, Scott Buchholz said the LRCIP was delivering better community infrastructure across the Lockyer Valley with millions in funding made available.

“I am pleased the Australian Government is partnering with the Lockyer Valley Regional Council to invest in our local community, building community infrastructure such as a better Gatton skatepark,” Mr Buchholz said.

“I look forward to seeing more projects underway, such as these works at the Lake Apex skatepark.”

Lockyer Valley Deputy Mayor and Community Facilities Portfolio Councillor, Jason Cook, said the funding for Gatton Skatepark upgrades totalled more than $380,000.

“The upgrades will include the addition of a bowl section and we will also add a host of street skate items to the skatepark, including grind rails, a half pipe and a quarter pipe,” Cr Cook said.

“Night lighting will mean users of the facility will be able to skate at night, which will be perfectly timed for the warmer weather that will be upon us by the completion of the project.

“These upgrades were highlighted as a need from the community for many years now and follows community consultation with skatepark users in 2019.

“Unfortunately, due to funding timelines and contractor availability, we need to undertake this project during the summer school holidays with works requiring a full closure of the skatepark.

“Council investigated a range of options to avoid school holidays and found that any further delays could jeopardise the entire skatepark upgrade project, however we’re confident the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term inconvenience.”

Construction is set to start late November and will continue until late January 2022, weather permitting.

For safety and efficiency, the skatepark will be closed during the construction period and Council thanks all users and residents for their understanding and cooperation.

For more information on this project and to see locations of the region’s other skateparks, visit https://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au/ or contact Council on 1300 005 872.