A TEENAGER has launched a petition demanding improvements to Maldon "dangerous" skate park.

Kieren Blackbourn has started the Change.org petition calling for an upgrade to the skate park in Promenade Park.

Similar calls in 2014 prompted a response from Maldon District Council, which said the equipment had been inspected and was safe.

It also said £10,000 would be spent on essential refurbishment including re-using some ramps taken from another site which was due to be completed before the summer holidays.

However, 16-year-old Kieren claims the condition of the park has worsened over the years.

The youngster is a member of the skate park community in Maldon and says the park is in a “dangerous condition”.

This includes a “small crater at the bottom of the ramp” which he says is unsafe for small wheels.

Explaining the need for an upgrade, he said: “To this day, Maldon Skate Park continues to become more unsafe and remains in a dangerous condition.

“Ramps are rusting and have visible cracks, there is also damage to the paint and the ramps are not flush to the floor.

“The tarmac is also very rough which can cause injuries to be way worse than if the floor was concrete as it cuts skin very easily.”

The youngster, who is about to start his GCSEs, suggests the ramps and surface should be improved for safety and even upgraded to offer more to its users.

He says more equipment could be added such as full pipes and bowls and seating areas such as picnic benches and shelters.

He also believes flood lights which turn on at sunset, fencing and security cameras could be added for the safety of the park’s users.

Kieren added: “Riders have built a community and are aiming to achieve good from this.”

So far, the petition has amassed almost 300 signatures with support from residents who believe this would benefit the children and young people in the town.

Maldon District Council has been contacted for comment.