Approval Given for Expansion of Skatepark in Rhondda Cynon Taf

The expansion of a skatepark in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) has been given the go ahead.
The application for the installation of floodlighting and construction of a concrete bowl as an extension to the existing skatepark within Tyn-y-bryn Park in Tonyrefail was approved by RCT Council’s planning committee on Thursday, October 8.
The bowl would provide approximately 120m² of additional rideable skatepark area, the planning report says.
It will measure approximately 14.1m in length and 9.9m at its widest point, with a maximum depth of 1.2m from the flat bottom.
Earth mounding will be included behind the platforms to reduce fall heights and remove the need for steel safety barriers.
The bowl has been designed to provide a transition riding facility that supports incremental skill progression through a variety of ramp styles and heights and is intended to accommodate users of all ages and abilities.
Access to the proposed development would be from the existing footpath that runs through the centre of the park and serves the existing skatepark.
The proposed floodlighting would include two 8m-high columns positioned on either side of the existing skatepark.
The lighting system would operate via a contactless payment timer, allowing people who use it to turn the floodlights on by using a debit or credit card, or mobile payment services such as Apple Pay, Android Pay, or Samsung Pay.
Those using the skatepark would  select the required number of sessions via a touchscreen before presenting their payment card or device to the reader.
An optional key-operated override switch would also allow authorised use without payment.
The report says the metering approach is intended to minimise unnecessary energy consumption by ensuring that the floodlights operate only
when required by skatepark users.
It says that supporting information with the application says the operating hours of the floodlights would be between 4pm and 9pm.
In recommending approval, planning officers said in their report: “The proposed development would provide the local community with an enhanced
leisure/sports facility on an area that has been long established as being used for leisure/sports purposes.
“The siting of the extended skatepark and associated floodlighting is considered acceptable in terms of its visual impact and potential impact upon the amenities of neighbouring residents.”
Councillor Mike Powell said it was an admirable application and that they could with more of them in the borough.
Councillor Loretta Tomkinson said the floodlights would help keep the facility open until 9pm for the children to use.
Councillor Wendy Lewis said it was excellent to see that the facility is being used so well to an extent where it needs to be extended and lights used.
There have been no public objections to the application. ‌​‌​‌​​​‍‌​‌​​‌‌‌‍‌​‌‌​​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌‌​​

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