People

The city centre has been a no-go zone for skateboarders ever since 2000, when a byelaw was introduced following complaints from the public.

Skaters currently face a fine of up to £500 if they flout the law. In practice, they are usually moved on by police and street wardens. But following a public meeting organised by skate collective SkateMCR, that may be about to change.

"The skateboarders made some reasonable points. For instance, they asked: ‘can we skate outside Urbis after 6pm in the evening?’ It’s an option we’re going to look at."

But Cllr Karney said that he also had to consider the safety and views of pedestrians who also want to use the city’s public spaces.

SkateMCR

SkateMCR’s stated aim is the abolition of the byelaw. They argue that as well as being a social sport and activity, there are other positive sides to street skating.

He welcomed any move to allow skating after 6pm saying it would be ‘a great achievement,’ after years of lobbying. But also made the point that street skating is celebrated in places like Paris, Barcelona and Prague where people gather to watch the skaters perform their tricks.

“Not all skateboarders want to go to skate parks and do ramps all day. Street skaters want to skate the urban environment,” he said. “And the area next to Urbis in Cathedral Gardens is one of the key places. It’s as if it was designed for skating – it’s got steps for jumps and three blocks which curve round which are just perfect for grind tricks.”

“All skateboarders want is to be left to do their thing. They don’t cause any trouble. If you leave them alone, they’ll leave you alone.”

A skaters’ forum or committee is now being set for the council to consider their views.