By Callan Date
HUNDREDS of local skaters, bike riders and roller bladers have been forced to find a new home after a popular indoor facility in Cranbourne was closed last month.
The closure of The Shed Skatepark and Recreation Centre has been felt by regular users right across the City of Casey and beyond.
The Cranbourne Salvation Army operated the complex, which is part of the Casey Indoor Leisure Complex precinct, for 14 years before shutting the doors for the last time on 29 December.
Since then the thrill seekers have literally been left in the dark with no indoor facility available.
Casey Council, which owns the building, said it was committed to ensuring The Shed remains a premier skating facility in the municipality.
However, a re-opening date is yet to be set.
Casey manager of city living Richard Amon said the complex would remain an important asset to the recreational users of the Casey Indoor Leisure Complex.
“Council is currently exploring operation and management plans for the facility, including the potential for a public/private partnership,” he said
“A report will be presented to council in early 2008 with the recommended course of action.”
Berwick resident Tracey Clark said her husband and son were regulars at The Shed but now had limited places to skate.
“They need a place like this to skate,” she said. “Young kids, especially, need The Shed back open.”
The Cranbourne Salvation Army issued a statement saying: “The need for The Salvation Army to be involved in the running of The Shed Skate Park is no longer there.
“The Casey City Council has developed a new skate strategy, which will see The Shed Skate Park move into a new and exciting phase of its existence.
“We at The Salvation Army are fully supportive of this new direction, believing it will be of great benefit to our community.”
