Plans have been formally submitted for a £400,000 skatepark in Sittingbourne.

Swale councillors will run the rule over the outline proposals at a meeting next month.

A 32-acre site behind Pizza Hut and Halfords on Mill Way retail park has been earmarked for the development.

It will be known as The Paper Mill, on account of its vicinity to the town’s former landmark building, and is designed for boarders, roller bladers, BMX riders and scooterists.

Dave Green, committee mentor of the Sittingbourne Skatepark Fundraising Group, said: “Hopefully, this time next year the town will have its own unique wheeled sports park. It’s exciting that we’re a step closer to realising the dream.”

The planning application includes designs for beginner, intermediary and advanced areas for skateboarders.

It also features a street plaza, covered area to enable all-weather participation and space for the building of a cafe and skate shops.

Picnic benches and a climbing wall are included in the plans, and the park is designed to be capable of hosting regional events.

Nearly £75,000 has been secured for the venture from the council, councillors’ grants and the skateboard group’s fundraising efforts. Bids have been submitted to funding outlets to help secure the remaining £300,000 needed to finance the project.

Mr Green said: “After 40 years of waiting, Sittingbourne skatepark is going to finally happen.”

Groundwork South, the design team which has drawn-up the planning application, wants to hear from youngsters with ideas on the park’s layout. To submit suggestions, email carolunwin@groundwork.org.uk or call 01322 384848.

To support the Skatepark Fundraising Group, contact chairman Jordan Rogers at jordanrogers95@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page Build Sittingbourne’s Skatepark.