AN Altrincham woman is hoping to get her idea for a skate park in the centre of town off the ground.

Paulina Lewis first got the idea for a skate park after a trip to Croyde, north Devon, two years ago.

“There was a fairly small skate park, not terribly elaborate, behind a community hall in the middle of the village,” said Paulina.

“I thought that this is what we need for our young people where I live in Altrincham.”

Since then Paulina has been exploring the viability of a skate park in the town, writing to the council and contacting companies who have delivered such parks for advice and guidance.

And funds and acquiring a site are the biggest challenges.

Paulina discovered that a park in Marple had a skate park installed after £50,000 was raised through Friends Of group. The council matched the donations pound for pound, with £100,000 pumped into the project.

Paulina has also identified a number of places in Altrincham that could be suitable sites, including parks, but she believes land across from Vue cinema would be the perfect spot for the park.

“Our town suffered badly with closed shops and many empty offices but it is slowly coming back to life,” said Paulina.

“Wouldn’t it be great to have somewhere for kids to go with their friends, that isn’t expensive, which is central so adults can be around and they are in public view, and help them build their independence?”

Although Paulina has put a lot of time and effort into scheme, she is looking for help with getting information on how to secure grants, identify viable sites and get young people interested.

“I have a son who loved to skateboard when he was younger – he’s 40 now and he still does it,” said Paulina.

“I only wish he had one of these parks to go to when he was growing up.”

Paulina has been invited to speak to a youth group about her idea.

One Trafford recently erected a skate park in Seymour Park, in Stretford. There are currently no plans for a new skate park in Trafford.

Anyone who can help is asked to call Paulina on 07860 256 682 or email paulina.lewis@btconnect.com.