Whites Grounds skate park gets summer clean-up

A new bigger skate ramp is now available for skateboarders. The park now also has toilet facilities, a kitchenette and an office for the council's play services staff.

Volunteers from Southwark Council and local businesses, as well as local councillors, spent a July weekend clearing the arches behind the skate park to prepare for the installation of the new facilities.

"This is a truly local project for young skaters," says Cllr Paul Noblet, Southwark's executive member for regeneration.

"It came about through local kids telling us a skate park was what they really wanted in the area, and it has become well used and well loved in that short time.

"We selected Forge Architects, which designed the new facilities on a pro-bono basis, partly because of their interest in local projects and in developing existing community and youth facilities.

"Our continued investment in the park is crucial to investing in local communities and giving kids something constructive to do during the holidays and after school."

The clean-up crew included members of Team Borneo Ultimatum who work for Ernst & Young at More London. They are raising their profile and seeking sponsorship for a gruelling and unforgettable seven days in Borneo in October this year.

The trip aims to raise vital funds for The Prince's Trust. Team Borneo Ultimatum will be taking part in a two-day 20 km ascent of Mount Kinabalu, a 117 km bike ride across the Sabah heartland, and a raft down the Kiulu River before ending their journey at the edge of the South China Sea, all whilst competing against other teams.

Jen O'Donoghue, one of the team members who took part in the clean-up, said: "The Whites Grounds skateboard park is a great example of how a run down and derelict space can be turned into such a brilliant resource.

"The day was hard work, and at times really unpleasant, however, it was worth it to be able to contribute to the provision of clean and safe facilities for the young people who live in the area."

• London Bridge businesses looking for a team volunteering opportunity should contact Team London Bridge.