A £140,000 skateboarding park and multi-sports facility in Rubery's St Chad's Park is now open for business.

Officers at Bromsgrove District Council have worked closely with youngsters from the area, local police and the County Youth Service on the project, which has been funded by a government Liveability grant. The state-of-the-art facility was opened last Saturday by Sergeant Mark Wilkes, from Rubery police station. Sgt Wilkes has supported the scheme throughout its development.

"I am honoured to be chosen to officially open these facilities and I'm sure they will make a positive difference for young people living locally," he said.

"The project has taken a long time in the planning and we hope the result of everyone's efforts will be enjoyed for many years to come."

Council chiefs held meetings with local youngsters and specialist skate park designers Gravity Engineering at Rubery Youth Centre to discuss the design of the facility.

Councillor Peter McDonald (Lab-Waseley), who has been campaigning for the skate park for three years, was delighted with its completion.

"This is the fruition of three years work between myself, Councillor Colin Wilson, the police and local headteachers.

"Myself and Councillor Wilson are delighted that at last this project has been finalised.

"It is the first major investment in Rubery for ten years," he added.

Cllr June Griffiths (Con-Alvechurch), Bromsgrove District Council's portfolio holder for leisure, recreation and amenities, praised the work of local councillors, and the children who had a role in designing the facility.

"I am absolutely delighted that the skate park is now in place," she said.

"I must praise the work of the Rubery councillors, Councillor Wilson and Councillor McDonald, for their persistence in making this project possible.

"The local children have had a major role in designing the skate park and we hope they will use it as fully as they can, and get a lot of pleasure out of it."

Saturday's ceremony also saw the council sports development officer John Miller giving sports coaching, while youngsters painted pieces of the skateboard park with graffiti art.