COUNCIL chiefs are to draw up new plans to provide skateboard park facilities across the Harrogate district after a series of problems.

The borough council was forced to close down the Hydro park, in Harrogate, following reports of drug abuse and vandalism at the site. Troubles have also been experienced at council-run parks in Ripon and Knaresborough.

Now, a task group dedicated to finding the best way forward has been set up and is hoping to make progress shortly.

Leisure services spokesperson, Councillor Pat Marsh, said: "It was clear that there is support for these much-needed facilities and I was delighted that there has been such a positive and frank discussion with many issues being identified.

"Many suggestions have been forthcoming and a plan of action has been identified. A small task group has been set up, made up of officers of the council and youth workers who will go away and look at the issues in more detail.

"They have been asked to look at examples of good practice elsewhere, to consult with the young people and to report back to the main group at a later date."