The developer of a new skatepark and gymnastics facility hopes it will enable young people to develop employment skills through a range of volunteering opportunities.

The charity 4Motion Darlington and Darlington Gymnastics Club have come together to convert an empty warehouse on the Faverdale Industrial Estate into an indoor skatepark for BMX, scooter, in-line skates and skateboarding and a new permanent home for the thriving Gymnastics Club.

Work has started this week on the refit of the building that was formerly part of the Amdega conservatories site.

The project is being developed as a social enterprise and Nigel Potter, managing director of 4Motion, hopes to employ young people in key roles once it is up and running in January 2014.

So far, £85,000 has been raised towards the £100,000 needed to fully complete the facility and Mr Potter hopes local businesses may be interested in coming onboard to sponsor the facility and raise the rest of the funding.

He said: “We are hopeful that either a large single organisation or a number of smaller firms may come together to help us raise the rest of the money needed for this important facility.

“It would also be of immense help to have firms helping contribute to that total with in-kind donations such as providing services or materials at a reduced rate or cost price

“This facility will provide positive activities and a place for young people to aspire and challenge themselves.

“With that in mind it is important that young people play a role in running it.

“We hope that it will help develop their skills in areas such as coaching, customer service, supervision, reception, and event management.

“That will help increase their employability and their life skills such as team working, leadership, and motivating others.

“These are skills useful throughout academic life, and all valued by employers.

“Participation in a community setting will also help them build a sense of self and individuality, also enabling them to navigate around the demands and contingencies of everyday living.

“For children and young people it will be a venue focused on them. It is hoped that being part of such an exciting project will create and support the concept of active citizenship at a young age.”

4Motion Darlington is a registered charity which aims to promote and provide facilities and activities for extreme wheeled sports.

Darlington Gymnastics Club was formed in 1970, and has over 400 members.

It offers recreational gymnastics and supports a competitive gymnastics team.

It has outgrown its current location on Weir Street and this is now restricting club growth.

Any firms interested in supporting the facility should contact Mr Potter on 07985-468606.