Residents of all ages enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of action-packed displays with free practical workshops and competitions for budding skaters, bikers and scooter riders.
Local resident, Chris Gilman, said: “The skate park is a great improvement. It was a fantastic event today - good for the kids, and for the whole community.
“I’m pleased to see the wider improvements underway in the park too and hope they help us all better value what we have here from an environmental and biodiversity standpoint.”
Councillor Martin Butcher, Chairman of East Herts Council, said: "I have been so impressed by the skills of the pros who joined us today. What a great sport! They are such good role models for the many young people taking part in the workshops and competitions today and using this great park in the future."
Councillor Mione Goldspink, East Herts Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, added: “It was a real treat to join the crowd on Friday. I was amazed at the agility and skill of all the skaters. Families were also able to share the experience, with many sitting on the grass and watching. This is a splendid new facility for the whole community.”
The new skate park is just one part of the redevelopment of Castle Park which is being funded by a £2.5m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Community Fund, together with contributions from East Herts and Bishop’s Stortford Town Councils.
The improvements are on track to be completed by September 2024 and include:
• A new community space, the Markwell Studio
• A new café and terrace plus public toilets which will include an accessible Changing Places facility
• New footpaths and bridge links over the River Stort to enhance connectivity and accessibility between Castle Park, Sworders Field and Castle Gardens
• Habitat improvements along the River Stort
• Wildflowers around the Waytemore Castle mound, lighting of the motte at night, and improvements to the war memorial gardens
• Conservation of the remains of the castle on the mound and improved access
