CONCERNS have raised about spraypainting, loud music and a lack of parking close to a skatepark.

The skatepark on Dunbar Road in North Berwick was recently given an upgrade in a £160,000 project, led by North Berwick Community Skatepark Project. 

But now, there have been concerns voiced about the behaviour of some skating enthusiasts since the park reopened last September. 

North Berwick: Upgraded skatepark set for relaunch

At a meeting of North Berwick Community Council earlier this month, secretary Kathryn Smith said that a resident had been in touch about the issue.

She said: "I received an email from a resident on Glenburn Road about the loud music and parking difficulties close to the property, according to the resident, since the skatepark has been reopened.

"The road has been very busy and is being used for parking to access the park by skaters, scooters and dog walkers.

"The park has always had its own parking facilities at the rugby club at the end of the park but recently parking is causing problems for us, including families and visitors, and we have had to go to Lochbridge Road to park, which is ridiculous." 

Ms Smith then added that, in her opinion, "anytime I go round Glenburn Road there do seem to be problems with parking".

Peter Hamilton, community councillor, added: "The skateboarders were given two pieces of wood to spraypaint to their hearts' content but I do believe they have been spraying other things they shouldn't."

And Sally Egan, another community council member said: "On the subject of the skatepark, I do think it has been really lovely to see so many children enjoying it. 

"It is lovely seeing it being used, my grandchildren love it." 

Kathryn Smith told the community council that the North Berwick resident requested to have designated parking for people who live on the street and has now forwarded the email onto the community warden. 

A spokesperson for North Berwick Community Skatepark said: "There is no graffiti at the park as of today and, if there is, the East Lothian Council graffiti team are on it the next day, so that is not an issue. 

"There have been no reported parking issues as Aldi car park is available. It has been the summer holidays combined with roadworks in and around the streets near to Glenburn Road which has caused hassle for everyone.

"Fringe by the Sea will have added to the lack of parking in the local area due to restriction on St Baldreds Road.

"Most local skaters who use the skatepark travel by foot and, if loud music is being played, the residents should contact the community warden. I've not witnessed anything that would be of concern over the summer. "