THE amount of enthusiasm for the idea of a skate park in Inverness was clear when three times as many people as expected - including quite a number from Merkinch - turned out to a public meeting at Charleston Academy Community Complex on 16th January to hear details of the plan by Inverness businessman Alan Wilson to build a £1.3 million skate park at the Bught.

He outlined his plans for an indoor facility that would accommodate BMX bikes as well as skateboarders and roller-skaters, and have a full range of facilities including catering.

Mr Wilson, who runs Inverness-based Bikes Direct Scotland, had unfortunately not the use of a microphone to address the large crowd. However, it was clear that he expected it could cost anything from £1.50 to £3.50 entrance fee to run the centre at a profit.

Some parents accused Mr Wilson of hi-jacking young people’s enthusiasm for the idea of a skate park for big business ends. But he denied this, saying that there was no doubt there was a need for such a facility, from both kids and parents. But it would have to make money - if it lost money it would have to close down.

However, at the Inverness culture and leisure (C&L) committee the following week, councillors shared the parents’ scepticism, describing the proposals as “over the top”.

While they recognised the children’s enthusiasm and the need for some such facility, they felt Mr Wilson’s plans were too ambitious for the size of the catchment area.

There was concern, too, as to how the money could be raised. Said one, “The children need some facility, but it is too much expecting them to pay £3.50.”

Mr Wilson remains optimistic, however, and expects to see a steering group set up shortly. This would be likely to include representatives from the Merkinch area, News & Views has learned.