COUNCIL bosses in Blackburn with Darwen have ruled out the possibility of creating an indoor skatepark in the borough.

But after rejecting calls for a facility like Manchester’s Lottery-funded Central Skate-park, officers have agreed to look into the feasibility of creating an outdoor skatepark.

And Witton Park has been earmarked as a suitable venue to house a such a facility.

It comes after 124 people signed a petition for an indoor skatepark in Blackburn with Darwen.

A report to the borough’s executive says: “Young people are increasingly looking for alternative recreation activities away from the traditional sports such as football.

“The petitioners state that the popularity of urban sports such as BMX, skateboarding and scooters has risen significantly in recent years.

“It is recognised that young people from Blackburn with Dar-wen are travelling beyond the borough to use these facilities on a regular basis.

“Through a variety of partnerships, the council is making investment in new opportunities for young people, noticeably with the Youth Zone and BSF schools, and Witton Country Park offers an excellent outdoor venue.

“The scope to diversify the sporting offer through these venues needs to be explored.”

Council officers said the provision of an indoor facility was not feasible because there is no funding.

It is hoped an outdoor skatepark at Witton Park would attract more people to the green space, from inside and outside of the borough, and encourage healthy lifestyles.