PLANS for a new BMX racetrack next to Redditch's skatepark were unveiled at an open evening.

Visitors to Matchborough skatepark last week could view proposed plans for a new racetrack, spearheaded by Redditch Premiers BMX club.

The club plans to work with Redditch Council and the Redditch Wheels Project, which opened the Icknield Street Drive skatepark, to bring a track to the town.

Skatepark founder Steve Rooke said the plans, part of the Redditch Wheels Project expansion programme, were still in the early stages and would need about £150,000 funding.

"There's a funding bid going in to Arrow Valley Country Park as a whole, looking at coming from a variety of different sources including Sport England and the Lottery, but it's still in its seed stages," he said.

"Next we are looking at an indoor skatepark built adjacent to the site, then an outdoor plaza - it would be mimicking a street scene, but it's just in stages at the moment.

"The BMX is the quickest stage as it has the British Cycle Federation behind it.

"It's going to be the next big thing, we are aiming for the community benefit as a whole."

At the open evening, councillors, council officers, and representatives from youth agencies joined members of the public for a guided tour, along with demonstrations of BMX, skateboarding and inline skating from local youngsters.

Redditch mayor Mike Chalk officially opened the skatepark's newest ramp, designed to introduce beginners into skateboarding and roller blading, and dedicated it to the memory of local skater Thomas Bourne, who passed away.

The skatepark is open every day throughout the summer holidays from 11am until dark.

Admission is £3 per day towards the charities running costs.

For more details, visit www.redditchskatepark.co.uk