Fresh bid to deliver North Coast urban sports hub after 30 years of campaigning

Metropole Park, Portrush

Campaigners hoping to see a dedicated skatepark and urban sports facility on the North Coast are a step closer to that ambition, with work set to begin next month on a masterplan for the long-awaited Metropole Project in Portrush.

The study, due to begin in August, marks a fresh attempt to bring forward proposals for a major outdoor recreation space after more than three decades of campaigning and several previous schemes that failed to reach construction.

Masterplan to shape future of Metropole site

The project is being led by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in partnership with the Causeway Association of Urban Sports (CAUS).

Rather than focusing solely on a skatepark, the masterplan will examine how the Metropole site can become a wider community destination, combining urban sports, recreation, landscaping and public space into a single integrated development.

If ultimately approved and funded, the vision is for a free-to-use facility designed for people of all ages and abilities while strengthening Portrush’s position as a recreation and tourism destination.

What could be included?

Early concept proposals are expected to explore a range of facilities, including:

• A purpose-designed urban sports plaza for skateboarding, scooters, BMX and other wheeled sports.

• A multi-sport pump track and off-road BMX course.

• A flexible community and civic events space.

• New children’s play facilities.

• Landscaping and improved public realm linking the various elements together.

The study will determine how these features could best be incorporated into the site.

Public consultation planned

A key part of the process will be gathering views from the people who would use the facility.

During August and September, Council, CAUS and specialist designers Betongpark will consult with residents, schools, community organisations, businesses and urban sports users to understand local priorities before concept designs are produced.

Further details on consultation events are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

European specialists appointed

The masterplan is being developed by Betongpark, one of Europe’s leading skatepark design companies.

The firm has worked on numerous urban sports projects across Europe and is recognised for designing facilities that integrate with wider community spaces rather than operating as standalone skateparks.

What happens next?

Once consultation has been completed, concept proposals will be presented to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and CAUS for consideration before decisions are made on how the project should progress.

While the masterplan does not guarantee construction, it represents the most significant step in years towards delivering a permanent urban sports facility that campaigners have been seeking for more than 30 years.