BMX riders in damage control

The new park can be used by enthusiasts from numerous worlds.

BMX enthusiasts met with Hastings District Council staff on Friday to come up with a solution to sharing the newly-opened William Nelson Park.

Initial concern about BMX bikes damaging the park, frequented by skateboarders and scooter riders of all ages, were quelled when the two groups came together for a civil discussion.

"There was some concern that steel pegs on BMX bikes would damage the concrete surface of the bowl," Hastings District Council Parks and Property Services Manager Colin Hosford says.

"They have assured us that they will place plastic coverings on the steel pegs or not have the pegs at all. This [means] that the BMX bikes will not cause damage to the bowl and they can continue to use the park."

Chris, a BMX rider of 20 years who did not want to have his last name printed, joined the discussion to put forward his case.

"They were worried about us chipping the concrete but it's fairly durable, it's reinforced. I think they just wanted to present it and take preliminary action rather than deal with the consequences," he said.

"There are no restrictions on us, we just have to meet the standard, with nylon pegs and pedals, which most new school bikes are fitted with anyway."

It was a compromise which saw both parties walk away with a positive result.

"They came to the table, listened to our ideas, it was good to have that collaboration. It's a really cool spot, we have been waiting for something like this in Hawke's Bay for a very long time."