CONSTRUCTION of a new skate park in Southend is underway today.

Maverick Skateparks are moving onto the site at Warrior Square to begin the build.

The work is expected to be complete in 14 weeks.

The council is now asking for the public's help in deciding a name for the new facility.

Council officers will then select a shortlist of names and then put the final list back to the public to vote on their favourite. The name with the most votes will then become the official name of the skatepark.

Scott Dolling, director for culture, tourism and property, said, : “The skatepark has long been an ambition for the council and we are thrilled to announce that works will begin this week.

“Maverick Skateparks has a very successful history of creating dynamic skateparks that are suitable for all ages and abilities, and we are confident that they will deliver a space that will draw in thousands of skateboarders, BMXers and scooterists to our town.

“When we agreed to go ahead with the skatepark, we knew it was a facility that would be popular with the younger demographic, but we want it to be a facility that accommodates all ages, and so we want the public to have their say on the name of the new space.

"We welcome all reasonable suggestions and will be sharing more information on our social media channels in the coming days.”

Residents have until Friday, May 31, to send in their suggestions.

The council gained planning permission to build the skatepark on December 20, 2018, following a consultation period to decide on the location and design of the skatepark.

You can contact the council with your suggestions by tweeting @SouthendBC and hashtag #SouthendSkatepark

Alternatively, you can send a message via Facebook www.facebook.com/SouthendBCOfficial

Or email, sk8@southend.gov.uk