The Frome Skatepark project: our journey so far
The Frome Skatepark project is a story about young people, community spirit and what can happen when a town really listens. From early chats on the ramps to packed skate jams and powerful speeches from young people at council meetings, this project has grown because people care deeply about this space and the young people who use it.
It’s been shaped by skaters, riders, families, volunteers, councillors and supporters, all working together to create something special for Frome. As we move into the design and consultation phase please join us as we fundraise to create the best skatepark we can for Frome.
We also have an in-person consultation on 13 March, 3:00pm – 7:30pm at Frome Town Hall, where you can meet the Maverick team, share your ideas and help shape the new design.
2026 and beyond: Building something for the future
We’re now moving towards the next exciting stage: turning ideas, energy and ambition into a real, lasting skatepark. This is your chance to have a say on the design and support our fundraising: with support and fundraising, we have the chance to create a really special space that will inspire confidence, encourage creativity and provide connection for generations to come.
How did we get here
2019–2022: Listening and early conversations
As the existing skatepark began to show its age, young people and families started raising concerns about safety, accessibility and lack of progression. Early conversations with regular users highlighted a clear message: the skatepark mattered deeply, but it needed investment.
“This is where we meet our friends and learn new tricks. It’s a big part of our lives, but it’s falling apart.” – Ed Bucklow, Young Skater
2023–2024: Building a shared vision
Frome Town Council began more structured engagement with skaters, wheelers, other users and parents but also more broadly other users of Mary Baily and Victoria Park. Surveys and informal pop-up sessions in the park helped build a clearer picture of what people wanted.
The Council committed to a co-design approach, putting young people at the heart of the decision-making process.
“We didn’t want something designed for young people without young people. Their voices have shaped this from the start and we want them to be at the heart of this project.” – Rob Holden, Environment Manager
2024–2025: Skate jams and community momentum
A series of skate jams and events brought new energy to the project. These events celebrated local talent, welcomed beginners and created opportunities to gather feedback in a fun way whilst the skaters put their skills to the test.
They also helped the wider community understand the importance of the skatepark.
2024–2025: Public debate and strong youth advocacy
As proposals developed, the project was discussed at council meetings and in the media. Young people as well as others spoke with confidence and passion about why the skatepark mattered, acknowledging the importance of it to non-skaters too. Their advocacy played a key role in building support. At a council meeting on 27 August 2025, councillors voted to proceed with the project, approving plans to relocate the skatepark near the younger children’s play area, with a commitment to provide safety features built into the design to separate the two spaces whilst ensuring that it is as accessible as possible. You can watch the meeting on our Youtube channel.
“Hearing young people speak so thoughtfully and powerfully was incredibly moving. It reminded us why this investment matters.” – Councillor Polly Lamb
“We were nervous speaking in public, but we wanted people to know how important this is to us.” – Young skater
2025: Co-design and fundraising
With support in place, the project moved swiftly into appointing a contractor and detailed co-design and fundraising efforts. Maverick were appointed as our contractor through a thorough tender process and they have begun work to create a skatepark that is inclusive, safe and well-integrated into Mary Bailly Playing Field, that is built to last and that is welcoming to all skaters.
Particular emphasis has been placed on making the space more welcoming for those groups who are underrepresented. Please use the links above to input into the design.
Looking ahead
Our aim is to create a skatepark that really works for the people who use it now, while being ready for the next generation of riders too. It will reflect our shared values of inclusion, creativity and community, and be a place young people can feel proud of for years to come.
We’re excited about what’s taking shape, are really looking forward to working with Maverick and we hope the whole community will get behind fundraising for this important project. With your support, we can create something truly special for Frome’s skaters and wheelers.
