Eco-friendly skate path for Omokoroa

The current concept plan for the Omokoroa Skate path project.

A group of skate boarding fans are bringing a one of a kind facility to Omokoroa.

The Omokoroa Community Skate Group (OCSG), in partnership with the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, have announced plans to create an environmentally sustainable skate path for the community - the first for the region.

OCSG member Ben Bell said after years of community-wide talk of a skate facility, the concept of a skate path rose from children of Omokoroa, who suggested as part of the redevelopment of the sports grounds, the council look further than a standard skate park.

"We wanted to do something different, but that would tie in with our environmental and community goals," Mr Bell said.

"As well as providing a destination for skaters and other riders, the vision is to create a facility that will enhance recreational opportunities for all ages, is family focused and will contribute to the already beautiful environment of Omokoroa."

The Skate Path will be part of a wider design, including a future playground and picnicking spaces to help bring people together in an active and safe environment.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council and the Omokoroa Community Board have contributed the majority of funding for the path, and the group are seeking the remaining funds through community grants.

As the project progresses, the council will fund the surrounding landscaping.

An initial design has been created by Rich Landscapes designer Richard Smith, who said environmental factors were applied heavily to the design process.

"The path will feature natural drainage elements to mitigate water runoff. Runoff will make use of the large lawn area and allow natural seepage into the soil, while potential garden areas in the playground will maximise education and play."

Added flat slab construction will also help to reduce levels of concrete input, minimising C02 production in the construction process.

The Skate Path's design takes advantage of the sloping terrain to create a more one-way facility, where the users flow from the top to the bottom of the site. Access the top again will be through a link path circulating the future picnic and playground area.

Mr Smith said new play features had also been included to provide a point of difference to other facilities in the Western Bay of Plenty.

For more information on the skate path's design visit www.skateomokoroa.org.nz