Newton Abbot Skate Park: Wolborough Street

The pedestrianised Wolborough Street appears to double up as a Skate Park in the evenings! At least many could be forgiven for thinking this.

Although I’d heard numerous complaints from locals about the influx and antics of skaters along this stretch – littering, vandalism and abusive behaviour – visiting the area at about 7pm the other night, I was decidedly shocked.

In the day the area is one of the bright spots in Newton Abbot’s landscape. Eateries, quaint shops, and of course the Clock Tower all give the stretch a considerable charm.

Come the close of business hours though…

Anyone new to the area would be excused for believing Wolborough Street was a designated skating area – with about 25 youths hurtling up and down the street all evening.

Several older citizens passing were almost hugging the walls in an effort to keep out of their way.

Certainly benches, plant pots, and any other would be attractive additions to the area, don’t stand a chance of surviving.

I can’t vouch for any littering, vandalism or abusive behaviour (I soon scarpered) but I can certainly say that you could hear them from the other end of town.   

So how has such a flagship development resulted in such a spectacle?

A Teignbridge Council spokesman said: “Action is being taken to try and divert this activity away from the area, led mostly by the Police. 

“They have increased their presence and have been talking to the young people to help convey some of the local concerns.  A night of diversionary activities has been piloted in Baker's Park, and we continue to look at funding options to develop better facilities there.”

I also asked why these youths are apparently not interested in the designated skate park at Decoy?

“With regards to Decoy, it is very well used, but tends to be used by more experience bikers and skaters.

“The hope is that a facility will be able to be provided in future for beginners to use, perhaps even in Baker's Park. Obviously that would all need to be considered and consulted upon.”

He added: “In all honesty though, the main issue with stopping it is that they simply haven't been proven to be breaking any laws. In fact, the only incident the police have logged is one of the two or three more vociferous complainants threatening the young people and a PCSO; obviously not the most constructive way to address the issue.

“Interestingly the Police did perform a wider consultation in the area with residents, and only two or three people registered concerns. Therefore the response has to be proportionate to this.”

Although they may not be breaking any laws – this was surely not what was intended from a flagship development.