The Knox City Council has earmarked the Knox bowl/skate-park (Lewis Park, Wantirna South, Victoria, Australia) for demolition in late January 2008.

The Council has made their decision based on a maintenance report and newly constructed bowl (Gilbert Park, Knoxfield). One of the most disturbing facts that have come to light is that the decision was reached in house; without consultation of the community or the facilitys active users.

WE WANT THE COMMUITY TO UNDERSTAND THE ISSUES AT HAND AND BE GIVEN THE RIGHT OF REPLY.

The Knox bowl constructed in 1988-89, holds important historical significance to the skateboard and BMX cultures/communities. It has a worldwide unique design that includes heavily utilised features such as transfer lines, spine, fly-outs and a snake pit which are not incorporated in the new bowl (Gilbert Park).

The Knox bowl in its present state of existence is still the only best suited training ground for many champion BMX and skateboard riders (past and present) including Steve McCann - currently ranked 4th in the world for BMX riding.

Since the new bowl has been constructed (Gilbert Park, Knoxfield), the Knox bowl (Lewis Park) continues to still be heavily utilised on a daily basis by people of various age groups (youth and adults alike) making use of its unique features and tranquil location which are not present at the new facility.

The Council should be considering factors such as the population increase of users, the two locations, the choice that the participants can make, and of course the costs for maintenance and ongoing upkeep.

ACTION OR RESOLUTION IS SOUGHT BY THE PETITIONERS

We, the undersigned, hereby earnestly request that the Knox City Council reconsider its decision to demolish Knox Bowl (Lewis Park) and that the Knox Bowl (Lewis Park) be preserved and maintained for the benefit and use of the community; and the current and future generations of participants and supporters.