waterfront: A popular skate park in Ipswich is to be extended as part of the creation of a new Tesco store in Grafton Way, it emerged today.

The plans include expansion and the addition of new facilities at the riverside site.

Since the initial application was submitted for the Tesco store, a link to the skate park and an existing riverside path were incorporated into proposals to enhance the area.

The proposals include the construction of a stepped area, which can be used for seating, and a new skate bowl.

A Tesco spokesman said the firm was delighted to be in a position to offer skaters the new facilities.

The spokesman added: “As part of the wider regeneration project at Grafton Way, it was always our intention to extend the existing skate park.

“It is a very well-used spot and very popular with skateboarders locally so we are delighted to be able to improve the site even further.

“We will continue to liaise with users of the skate park as well as the council to make sure we get the details right for the extension.

“We hope it will be as popular as the original site and continue to be well-used for a long time to come.”

Steve Miller, development control manager for the borough council, said: “Generally, all regeneration improves areas because of the investment.

“Here, a skate bowl will be provided by Tesco. This will be a facility which the skate park doesn’t yet have and is something skateboarders want.”

James Young, Waterfront manager for the borough, said the plans would boost the ongoing development of the area.

He added: “I personally believe the skate park is a great facility and anything we can do to improve or develop it is of benefit to the waterfront area and its users.”

n Do you think the plans for the development of the skate park will improve the Waterfront area of Ipswich? Contact Hollie-Rae Merrick on 01473 324738 or send an e-mail to hollie-rae.merrick@eveningstar.co.uk