A Dundee park could become home to Scotland’s first outdoor roller derby track.
Baxter Park could soon have a smooth surface pad for general skating, as well as accommodating a track suitable for roller derby.
Dundee City Council hopes to take the initiative forward in partnership with local groups, seeking external funding and carrying out a consultation.
Depute neighbourhood services convener Councillor Vari McDonald said: “This is a tremendous idea which would build on the great investment there has been in the park over the years.
“Roller derby has been growing in popularity and the Dundee Roller Girls have been an inspiration to many to take up this fast and exciting sport.
“The installation of a track would help attract more young people to Baxter Park, encourage them to get active outdoors and complement the existing facilities there. I look forward to seeing how this plan develops.”
Nichola Fraser from Dundee Roller Girls (DRG) said that as well as giving them access to outdoor training facilities, the skate park would be a good space for family fun.
She explained: “This skate track would not only give the DRG and other Roller sports clubs access to the only outdoor purpose built skating surface in Scotland, but be an excellent family friendly facility for all to use.
“Some wheelchair users who signed the consultation felt they could benefit from the use of a smooth surface thus promoting inclusion.
“The children who currently play in Baxter Park could see skaters practising and be inspired to try skating themselves.
“Adults who skated as children could get skates back on and try roller derby or skate recreationally.
“Skating is a great exercise to promote health and well-being and can be enjoyed across generations.
“Furthermore all will become more aware of the growing sport of roller derby and perhaps become involved as skaters or fans.”
The neighbourhood services committee on Monday November 14 will be told that the council was approached by Dundee Roller Girls, and Stobswell Forum in with the idea.
It would be located to the south end of the park beside the tennis court and Multi-use Games Area
A tender report would come back to the committee once the funding and consultation exercises have been carried out.
