Major new Poole skate park plans submitted – next steps outlined

Plans for a major new skate park at Baiter in Poole have moved a step closer, with a planning application now submitted to fully refurbish the existing site.

The proposals are part of BCP Council’s multi-million pound Plan for Play strategy, and if approved would see a £400,000 investment to modernise the skate park and create a space designed to serve the community for generations.

A much-loved site getting a major upgrade

The current Baiter skate facilities first opened in 1999. BCP Council says the refurbishment is an opportunity to update what’s on offer and encourage the next generation of skaters from across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

The proposed new concrete skatepark is designed around:

• Flow and progression
• Inclusivity
• A mix of street features, transition elements, and open space
• Support for all ages, abilities and wheeled sports disciplines

Co-created with local skaters

BCP Council says the design has been shaped with the people who use the site most. Working alongside Maverick Skateparks and existing users, a wish list of elements was developed, a concept design created, and then refined through feedback during a detailed public consultation — leading to the final design now submitted for planning approval.

Cllr Sandra Moore, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Play Strategy, described Baiter as a flagship investment in the Plan for Play programme and said she was pleased the design had been co-created with the skate community.

She added that whether someone is “the next Tony Hawk” or learning their first ollie, the proposals aim to offer something for everyone.

Maverick: “A privilege to help shape its future”

Russ Holbert, Director at Maverick Skateparks, said Baiter has been at the heart of Poole’s riding scene for decades and that working with the council and local skaters has helped create a design that respects the park’s history while giving the next generation something they can call their own.

Part of the wider Plan for Play investment

The skate park plans sit within BCP Council’s £4.6 million Plan for Play strategy, which aims to put play back at the heart of communities.

The council says around 120 play areas across BCP will be improved through the funding, including major refurbishments at priority sites, new equipment and resurfacing work, and proposals for brand new play areas in locations that matter most to local communities.

Cllr Andy Hadley, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Parks, said the current skate track has been well-used and loved for more than 25 years, and praised the proposals as a modernised vision inspired directly by the local skating community.

How to have your say

Because the proposals are a major new development, they are now subject to the usual planning process.

Public representations can be made via BCP Council’s planning portal using application number: P/26/02919/FUL.