Garbage brings skaters to a grinding halt

Enthusiastic skaters are frustrated by the never ending rubble they encounter every week at the old train platform.

“Every week, when we arrive at the platform we have to clean up the area, regardless of how well we cleaned it the week the before,” explained Eben Venter.

He said the group was grateful for being allowed to use the platform, but due to the community’s disregard in the way it dumped dirt and other substances, the platform was not nearly as safe as could be.

From bin bags filled with the weekly rot, to broken bottles are just some of the disgusting and dangerous articles skaters have to remove from the area before they can practice their sport.

“It’s a bit disheartening. We are trying to build up the area from our own pockets and efforts, and there are still people who would not think twice about throwing their garbage there.”

Mr Venter believed the group had two possible options available.

“We need the municipality to intervene and help clean up the area, or we need to look for a new place to skate at, somewhere that is already clean and safe for children to use,” he said.

The simple fact of the matter is people working to promote and develop skating in Newcastle can only take it so far.

They need help from you.

From helping source a new plot of land, to assisting with cleaning up the area, or developing the platform in other ways for the skaters to enjoy, are just some of the ways you can help.

For more information, visit their Facebook page NN Skate Park, or contact Eben on 082 837 4800.