Skateboarders have won a two-year battle for an official site.

The Sittingbourne group has been offered land off Mill Way to build a £400,000 park.

It’s a massive boost for a campaign which started in 2011 in response to complaints about youngsters displaying their board and BMX skills in Roman Square and Central Avenue.

Dave Green, 48, committee mentor of the Sittingbourne Skate Park Fund, said: “It’s brilliant news, really exciting.

“Two years’ hard work appears to be paying off and the park will give youngsters and adults somewhere to go.

“There’s never been anything for skateboarders in Sittingbourne and it’s the perfect meeting place because it’s right in the centre of Swale.”

The father of two, from Sheppey, said the group received written confirmation last week that 32 acres behind Halfords would be made available for a park, pictured above.

The site currently belongs to Essential Land, the development company in charge of the town centre regeneration.

It is thought the skateboard project will join up with Milton Creek Country Park.

With £7,500 already in the group’s coffers, Mr Green said it is in negotiation with Swale council for a further £25,000 investment.

He said the aim was to raise £200,000, which they hope to get match-funded from somewhere, to reach its £400,000 target.

Three companies are already drawing up plans for the park which, if all goes to plan, will begin to take shape in a year’s time.

Despite the good news, Mr Green said there is still much work to be done and the group’s fundraising effort will continue at the Forum next Saturday, August 17,August 17 with a wristband sale.

“This park will be free for everyone to use,” Mr Green said.

“As well as giving youngsters something to do, it’ll bring a lot of money to the local area.

“It’s already proved skateboard parks help reduce crime, with kids meeting up and learning from each other.

“This is such a positive move for Sittingbourne.”

To find out more about the group’s fundraising, visit: www.sittingbourneskate.co.uk