Cumberland Council has officially opened a new skatepark at Hammond’s Pond in Carlisle, marking another milestone in the city’s major regeneration programme, Start with the Park.
Despite the challenging weather, the opening event was a great success, attracting skateboarders, scooter riders and cyclists from across the local area. The event was run by Canvas, who also designed the new skatepark, and featured competitions throughout the afternoon.
The skatepark was officially opened by Chair of Cumberland Council Andy Semple, Chair of the Carlisle Town Deal Board David Wright, and the Mayor of Carlisle, Jeanette Whalen.
Cumberland Council also thanked local skate shop Ten and Fower for their support in promoting the event within the local skating community and for generously donating prizes for the competitions.
The new skatepark forms part of the Start with the Park project, which sits within Cumberland Council’s £100 million regeneration programme for Carlisle. The programme is supported by UK Government funding through the Future High Streets Fund, Town Deal and Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal initiative. This multi‑million‑pound investment aims to transform Carlisle city centre by improving infrastructure, supporting economic growth and creating a more attractive, accessible environment for residents, businesses and visitors.
Chair of Cumberland Council Andy Semple said:
“This park has always been a special place for Carlisle, and this new skatepark adds something energetic and vibrant to the space. It represents an investment not just in facilities, but in our young people, our families and our future.
“The skatepark has been shaped by input from local skaters, riders, young people, families and community groups, and that really shows. It’s been designed not just as a place to practice skills, but as a space where people can come together, make friends and feel proud of their local area.”
Cumberland Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“It’s fantastic to see Hammond’s Pond brought to life in this way. This skatepark has been shaped by the people who will use it, and it’s already proving what a positive difference well‑designed community spaces can make”.
Cumberland Council thanked everyone who attended the opening event and helped make the day a success. The skatepark is now open and ready for everyone to enjoy.
