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Surrey’s Cranleigh will see a new skatepark built with £650K in developer funds. Waverley Council approved the project to enhance community recreation.
Surrey Council Approves New Skatepark for Cranleigh
A long-awaited skatepark project in Cranleigh has officially received the green light, with Waverley Borough Council unanimously agreeing to invest £650,000 in developer funding to make it a reality.
The funding will cover the acquisition of land and the full installation of the new skatepark, which will replace the ageing facility scheduled for removal as part of the March 2025 redevelopment of the Cranleigh Leisure Centre.
Location Kept Under Wraps for Now
While the council confirmed the funding on Tuesday, July 15, the exact location of the new skatepark remains confidential. Officials cite ongoing planning processes and negotiations as reasons for withholding details, but confirmed the new facility will be situated on a different site than the one it replaces.
The old skatepark is being demolished to make way for the new leisure centre, creating urgency for a modern recreational alternative.
Meeting Community Growth with Infrastructure
Councillor Liz Townsend, Waverley’s portfolio holder for planning, emphasized the need for updated facilities in a rapidly growing community. “This will be an important addition to recreational spaces in Cranleigh and surrounding villages,” she stated. “It’s a much-needed and long-anticipated upgrade.”
The region has seen substantial development in recent years, increasing demand for youth-friendly and inclusive public amenities.
Developer Funds to Foot the Bill
The £647,125 cost of the skatepark will be fully funded through Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions—money that developers are required to pay to support local infrastructure.
This funding route ensures that no direct taxpayer money is required for the build, making it a politically popular decision among council members.
Strong Support Across Council
Despite one concern raised over the high cost, the proposal received unanimous approval from all council members present. Councillor Jane Austin, leader of the Conservative opposition, added her support: “This is really great for Cranleigh. There’s even potential for more—like a pump track or padel courts. It’s a big win for the whole area.”
Local enthusiasm is already growing, with young people and families expressing excitement for a revitalized community space.
A New Chapter for Cranleigh Recreation
The new skatepark represents more than just a sports facility—it’s a commitment to youth engagement, outdoor activity, and inclusive public design. With design planning already underway and the budget secured, construction is expected to begin following the demolition of the existing park in early 2025.
