Plans to build a new skate park for Tidworth residents have taken a step forward after the town council agreed to provide funding for the scheme.

The scheme, aimed to provide a new facility in town, was approved by Tidworth Town Council, who agreed to match the funding provided to Wiltshire Council by developer contributions.

The town council will now work to find a suitable plot of land for the skate park to be built on.

Skateboarding originated in California in the 1950s as an offshoot of surfer culture at the time. It reached the UK in 1977, with the first skate park in the country opening in London that same year.

Though the past time has never regained its initial popularity, it remains a popular activity amongst young people.

Tidworth, in contrast to many surrounding areas, does not have one of its own. Until 2012, the nearest examples were in Andover or Amesbury. However, in that year, Ludgershall Town Council approved plans for a skate park after years of campaigning by residents, and young people raising £10,000 towards the scheme.

Calls for Tidworth to have its own facility have been made for some years, with a council meeting on Tuesday, May 18 considering the item.

Councillors agreed to match the funding provided by Wiltshire Council from its developer contributions for adult and youth recreation and leisure.

This will mean £110,000 is available to provide a skate park in the town.

The council will now look to find a suitable site by consulting with landowners on the plans.

Following a site being identified, a consultation will be held to identify what users of the facility want at the skate park, so that a design and budget for the project can be produced.