A planned expansion of a skate park in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) is due to be decided by councillors. The application covers the installation of floodlighting and the construction of a concrete bowl as an extension to the existing skatepark within Tyn-y-Bryn Park in Tonyrefail.
Proposed bowl details
The application is due to go before RCT Council's planning committee on Thursday, October 8. According to the planning report, the proposed bowl would provide approximately 120m² of additional rideable skatepark area.
The bowl would 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 would be included behind the platforms to reduce fall heights and remove the need for steel safety barriers.
Design and access
The bowl has been designed to provide a transition riding facility that supports incremental skill progression through a variety of ramp styles and heights, 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 scheme 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 users to turn the floodlights on using a debit or credit card, or mobile payment services such as Apple Pay, Android Pay, or Samsung Pay.
Lighting operation and recommendation
Users 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. Supporting information with the application says the operating hours of the floodlights would be between 4pm and 9pm.
In recommending approval, planning officers say 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.” They add: “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.” There have been no public objections to the application.
