A SKATE park that was mostly destroyed when a construction vehicle was smashed into ramps is set for a revamp.

Designs have been revealed to refurbish the Freespace skate park at Stoneycroft Rise, Chandler's Ford. 

It comes after a spate of vandalism in late 2020 that saw a car dumped and burnt out in the centre of the park, with a construction vehicle being used to destroy equipment just weeks later. 

The "severe vandalism" led to the majority of the ramps being taken away with planning bosses saying at the time that the "appalling and mindless act" could cost the taxpayer up to £100,000. 

Hampshire Chronicle: Designs for Freepspace skate park in Chandler's Ford after vandalism.Designs for Freepspace skate park in Chandler's Ford after vandalism. (Image: Eastleigh Borough Council.)

But now the authority has revealed new designs which would see the riding surface replaced with new close-grained tar-mac. 

A spokesperson said: "We now have some exciting new designs and would welcome comments from the local community on these proposals.  

"Your comments will help us to ensure we install the ramps that are preferred by the local community."

An investigation was launched by Hampshire Constabulary in November 2020 after Eastleigh Borough Council said a construction vehicle had been stolen from the nearby Village Hotel. 

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This was then left partially inside the skate pool just yards from where the car had been torched leaving glass scattered and black marks on the equipment. 

A questionnaire has now been launched on the Eastleigh Borough Council website where residents can give their thoughts on the new plans.

The consultation is due to last until March 29 when the designs will by finalised. 

Eastleigh Borough Council estimates the park could reopen by summer this year.

A further consultation will be launched once initial feedback has been considered.

Public consultations will take place at Eastleigh House, Upper Market Street on March 8 at 3pm-8pm with skatepark builders, Fearless Ramps, on hand to explain how designs can be adjusted.

There will also be a session for under-18s on March 14 (6pm-8.30pm) at Energy Youth Centre.