New floodlights for Exmouth skatepark hailed a success!

Skaters and BMXers at Exmouth’s Phear Park skatepark are delighted with four new flood lights which mean they can now enjoy the park late into the evening.

Recently installed, the energy-efficient LED lights switch on automatically at dusk until 10pm. Two of the lights switch off 5 minutes early to give skaters time to pack up safely.

Keith Barlow, a BMXer at the park, tried out the new lights. He said: "The new lights are excellent. It’s really good being able to use the skatepark in the evenings under the floodlights."

Cllr Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Coast, Country and Environment, said, "Thank you to everyone who supported this fantastic scheme, especially people who saw the benefits the floodlights would bring.

"These new lights show we listened to the community and we invested in this safe space for young people."

Cllr Joe Whibley, Exmouth Town Council Mayor and EDDC’s Exmouth Town Ward Councillor, said: "After many challenges, I'm delighted that the lights are on and giving people the chance to skate until later in the evening. I'd also like to thank former Councillor Millar for helping to secure the funding for this project."

The lights were funded by a partnership of Exmouth Town Council and East Devon District Council. The skatepark in Phear Park has been in use since the 1990s and is extremely popular with all ages of skateboarders, skaters and people on scooters too. The skatepark is accessible and appeals to all. It’s used by local professional skaters/BMX riders as well as new-comers, finding their feet and learning from scratch.

For more information: https://eastdevon.gov.uk/parks-gardens-and-recreation/play-areas-skateparks-and-outdoor-gym-areas/skateparks/