LOOE’S long-awaited skatepark project has moved to within touching distance of reality after securing a £100,000 funding boost – leaving just £24,000 left to raise before construction can begin.

Kim Spencer, the Looe Development Trust trustee leading the project, said the latest award was an “incredible” breakthrough after months of fundraising, with the community now facing one final push to get the scheme off the ground.

The project has been awarded the money from Cornwall Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund, taking the total raised to £276,000 towards the £300,000 target.

Ms Spencer said: “I can hardly believe it was only 11 months ago that we stood in the Millpool Centre and launched our crowdfunding campaign.

“Raising £300,000 in the current funding climate looked like an almost insurmountable task, but so many town organisations and trusts, voluntary groups, local people, businesses, our schools and the wider community have been as determined as we have been to make this long-held dream a reality for the young people of Looe.

“We need one last push now to get this project across the line.”

The £100,000 award is subject to conditions and follows an application made earlier this year by the working group driving the project forward.

Led by Looe Development Trust, the group includes Looe Town Council, Boundless Trust and Cornwall councillors Mark Gibbons and Jim Candy. The funding application demonstrated the local need for the facility, the strength of community backing and how the project would benefit the area.

Community Infrastructure Levy payments are collected from developers and set aside to support infrastructure projects which benefit local communities and help address the impact of development.

The working group said the award would not have been possible without the support of the town’s two Cornwall councillors.

With £24,000 still needed to reach the fundraising target, organisers have several other grant applications outstanding. They are particularly hopeful of success with one application following the latest CIL award.

The working group and Skatepark Action Group are continuing to explore fundraising opportunities in the hope of securing the remaining money and agreeing a start date with specialist skatepark builders Maverick Skateparks.

The project has been driven by a determination to provide young people in Looe with a dedicated facility, with residents, schools, businesses and community organisations all contributing to the fundraising effort.

The skatepark is intended to provide a safe, welcoming space where young people can develop their skills, build confidence, spend time with friends and enjoy an active outdoor environment. It will also give families another reason to spend time in the town.

Ms Spencer said the response had demonstrated just how much support there was for bringing the long-held ambition to life.

Organisers are now appealing for anyone who can help with a donation, arrange a fundraising event or offer practical support to get involved.

Ms Spencer said there was still time for people to play their part in delivering a facility intended to benefit generations of young people.

Anyone wishing to support the project or get involved can contact Kim Spencer at [email protected].