A SKATING enthusiast is hoping to get plans to build a skate park in Leigh back on track.

Erik Richardson, of Etherstone Street, Leigh, is urging people to support a project to develop a purpose-built facility in the town after playing a key role in the opening of two skate parks in Derbyshire between 2010 and 2015.

The 31-year-old care support worker wants it possible for activities such as rollerblading, BMX bikes, scooter riding and skateboarding to take place at the proposed venue.

Two years ago, The Friends of Lilford Park (FoLP) held a consultation with skate park manufacturer Wheelscape to build one there but interest in the project dwindled away.

Dad-of-two Erik has set up a Facebook page inviting residents to get involved in the project and is also in discussion with skatepark developers Canvas.

He said: "Skating is a daily requirement for me but at the moment I have to travel out of Leigh to do it.

"There is clearly interest in getting a skate park built in the town- I just think it is a case of rallying the troops together to show that we want one.

"It can be a long process but I have experience of seeing projects like this through to the end.

"At the moment, I am open to considering any location in the town including the renovation of current skate parks."

When he helped to set up the two previous parks, Erik worked with volunteers to generate money at a host of fundraising events before securing lottery grants and other funds to complete the developments.

He aims to adopt a similar model in Leigh.

Erik, who moved to the town last year, believes a new facility would fit in well with the community of the town.

He added: "Although I have only lived here a short period of time, I have seen quite a few people skating.

"The Facebook page has only being going for a short period of time but I have already had a lot of messages about it.

"There are a lot of families in Leigh and the biggest demographic of skaters is young children so it would be great to give them an outlet for them to enjoy it.

"I have seen how these parks can lead to a great network of people having fun and I would love to see that happen in Leigh."

If you are interested in Erik's plans and would like to get involved, visit his Facebook page at facebook.com/leighskatepark/.