CONCERNS have been raised that Wellington’s new skate park is becoming a “dumping ground.”

Rubbish is being left strewn across the area and one resident says he feels it is turning into an unsafe place.

Tim Dyke said: “I was very happy when I saw the new skate park being built as the facilities there were not the best but, despite this, were still always busy with children of all ages skating and playing.

“I walk my dog past this park every day and recently I have become more and more concerned with this park as it seems to have become the daily dumping ground for rubbish and swearing for the teenagers who have now adopted this as their own.”

The skate park was re-opened by town Mayor Gloria Copley in July following a £50,000 makeover.

As reported in the County Gazette, users of the existing facility were asked for their ideas in a consultation carried out by Taunton Council staff and Wellington representatives Cllr Janet Reed and Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams.

The skaters and BMX riders asked for a concrete half-pipe and grind box and information was used to invite designs from skate park manufacturers.

Mr Dyke added: “On one side, it is good to see the council are investing money into the area for the children; however, on the other side, I have seen a big reduction in the younger children who now use the skate park and surrounding area.

“I, for one, will not be allowing my children anywhere near this area for the foreseeable future as I’m sure many parents already have done so.

“Perhaps a few more bins and the appearance of the local community officers would make a change for the better.”

A Taunton Deane Council spokesman said: “The updated skate park in Wellington is proving hugely popular and is getting a lot of use.

“This has led to a lot of litter being dropped, even though there are two bins.

“Sadly, some of the skate park users are not using the bins for their litter, even though they are highly visible.

“Staff from the council have been out litter picking and have installed signs while two additional bins will be installed.

“The skate park was finished ahead of build schedule, which has meant it was completed and opened before extra bins could be installed.

“Bins are provided to be used so the council would ask people to dispose of their litter properly.”