A SKATE park could be built in a secluded park after a teenager put the case to councillors.

But concerns about noise and nuisance forced the closure of others in the borough and remain despite the plea from Jonathan Firth.

Jonathan, 18, told members of Pendle Council's Colne and District Committee that ramps for skateboards and BMX bikes at Ball Grove Park, Colne, would curb anti-social behaviour and improve children's health and fitness.

His father Graham said that Colne desperately needs more facilities for older teens.

Colne's last skatepark, built on Alkincoats Park, had to be dismantled after residents complained about loud noise long into the night and equipment was vandalised.

Coun Alan Davies said: "Our experience of skate parks has not been good.

"There was a major campaign by residents for the one in Colne to be dismantled, and we created one in Nelson which was wrecked.

"But there are examples - Sough Park and Victory Park in Barnoldswick - where they are looked after and have been a success."

Coun Dorothy Lord said that even though the team behind the skatepark in Alkincoats had bought the latest soundproof equipment, the noise could be heard all around.

She said: "It was supposed to be the best equipment but it all backfired on us. Any skate park has got to be in the right place for everybody, which is why I fear this could go drastically wrong."

But Jonathan told the council there had been huge improvements in the skate equipment available since the Colne skate park was put up four years ago, and that Ball Grove Park was further from homes, meaning less nuisance.

The council asked for a report into the plans, but warned skaters and BMX riders that getting the park may be a long process.