The skatepark on Holbeck Moor has been brightened up in time for the school holidays thanks to a project initated by Cllr Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) and delivered by pupils from Reach Primary Learning Centre, with a little help from Burley Banksy (Andy McVeigh).
Ali Elvidge, the Head of Centre at Reach Primary Learning Centre, explained:
“The pupils of Reach Primary Learning Centre wanted to help improve the skatepark as it is a busy area used by a number of local residents ranging from babies to adults. When they visited the site and met Cllr Scopes and Burley Banksy they were quite shocked by how it was a such cool place but looked very neglected and spoiled. They felt that they had the skills to brighten it up and make people feel happier if they were having a sad time. They also wanted to see their design work on the ramps as it meant they could be like famous artists! The pupils were excited by the project as it meant they got to work with Burley Banksy.
“I am thrilled that the project has not only improved the skatepark, but it has also helped to include and engage all of the pupils enabling them to develop their artistic skills and support them in building their confidence and self-esteem. They have an achievement that they can see whenever they visit and can celebrate this with their friends and family. We are really grateful to Cllr Scopes, Laura Downing-Green at Leeds City Council and Burley Banksy for giving Reach this opportunity.”
As well as working with the children from Reach, Burley Banksy engaged with local children on Holbeck Moor who joined in with designing and painting in the evenings.
Cllr Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) commented:
“I am so pleased to be involved with this project, which has been done in partnership! It was a pleasure talking to the young artists about the project on Holbeck Moor and then seeing them make Holbeck Moor Skatepark looks bright and cheerful, ably helped my Burley Banksy. Myself and my ward colleagues, Cllr Annie Maloney and Cllr Gohar Almass, were very happy to commission this project.”
The project was funded by Councillors through the Inner South Community Committee with Reach Primary Learning Centre paying for Burley Banksy to work with the children in school to develop their designs.
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