Next steps for the northern suburbs skatepark

Image: W.F Jackson Park on Lawrence Hargrave Drive in Thirroul.

Right now, Wollongong City Council is working with internationally-renowned skate park design firm, Convic, on a skate facility for northern suburbs.

It’s a step likely be welcomed by the northern suburbs’ skateboarding community, and follows extensive community engagement last May where we asked people what they wanted from a skatepark.

Read more on our website: Northern Suburbs Skate Park | Our Wollongong

“While it’s highly unlikely you’ll ever see me on a skateboard, I know there’s a passionate community of riders out there. In May last year we asked them what they wanted for their local park,’’ Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.

“Of the responses, we had a clear preference for a combination of street and bowl over the two other options of a street and plaza, or bowl and transition.

“Convic is now looking at the information gathered through the 123 responses to the online pre-design survey as well as the feedback gathered from around 40 people at a pre-design workshop to inform its work.’’

Alongside a review of the community feedback, Convic are also undertaking site analysis for the new park considering the constraints and opportunities of several sites within the northern suburbs. The locations include the tennis courts near the train station and soccer grandstand at Thomas Gibson Park, MacCauley Park, WF Jackson Park, Pinecourt Park in Austinmer and Bulli Showground.

“At Monday’s Council meeting there were discussions about a skatepark for our northern suburbs and there is no question that Council is committed to delivering a facility for the community,’’ Cr Brown said.

“There are several locations we’re considering, however each come with their own challenges and constraints. It’s a matter of looking at each, and weighing up what risks can be mitigated, and where the community benefits lie.

“It’s important we get these steps right so that this facility can meet community needs and expectations and can be enjoyed by people for years to come.’’

The Draft Delivery and Operational Plan currently proposes the construction of the northern suburbs skatepark will begin in 2026 and be completed in 2027.

Before the end of the year, we’ll share with community the proposed location, a draft design and seek further feedback on the plans. We’re particularly interested to hear from young people, females and gender diverse community members.

“We want this space to be something everyone can enjoy,’’ Cr Brown said.

“If you look at other facilities like Holborn Park in Berkeley, it has become a real community hub. It’s not just a space for skateboarders and scooter riders, so it’s essential we hear from as many people as possible.’’

Keep updated on this project by opting to Stay Informed through our engagement website.