Lower Brougham No-Go for Skateboards

Skateboarders are reminded that the popular new shared space on lower Brougham Street should be skateboard-free.

There is a skateboard ban in New Plymouth’s CBD, including the newly redeveloped area in front of the library.

“The street furniture in the area isn’t designed for skateboards and won’t last as long as it should if people use it that way,” says Let’s Go Project Manager Carl Whittleston.

“If we had designed the area to be less attractive for skateboard stunts, it would simply be less attractive for everyone.

“Skateboarders can go across the road to the Coastal Walkway or use the skateparks around the district, but this shared space in front of the library is a slow-speed shared space for pedestrians, cyclists and cars.

“We ask the public to respect the work that has been done and not use skateboards there. We really want the streetscape to keep looking good for as long as possible.”

The CBD skateboard ban includes rollerskates, in-line skates, scooters and similar recreational devices.

Manager Enforcement Lloyd Crow says enforcement officers will be monitoring the CBD, including lower Brougham Street, during the day and after hours with assistance from the police and security guards.

“We’ll talk to any skateboarders in the area about the bylaw and require them to walk through this location. We’ll confiscate skateboards if talking to skateboarders doesn’t work or if there is repeat offending,” says Mr Crow.

Extra signs about the skateboard ban will be erected soon in the city’s CBD.