After more than five years of delay, a project to build skate parks across the borough could be introduced next month.

At a meeting last week, Elmbridge Council's community affairs and scrutiny committee approved the introduction of four skate parks in Cobham, Oxshott, Walton, and Molesey, after a lengthy campaign by parents dating back to 2000.

Shannon Ruffell, 31, a keen amateur skater from Cobham, has three young boys who all skate. At the moment he takes them to Walton or places as far out as Aldershot and Farnham.

He said: "It's really important for Cobham that we get this. There is absolutely nothing for young people to do here at the moment. It's just playing fields and not everyone likes football."

The skate park for Cobham has been considered by the council every year for the last five years but they have so far been unable to find funding.

Ken Purssey from Cobham, who has campaigned strongly during this period, said: "It is about time the young people in Cobham got what they deserve. Cobham seems to be often overlooked by the council, and as they are threatening to close youth clubs down, it's only fair they offer something else for young people to do."

Cobham and Downside councillor Mike Bennison said: "I fought like mad for this at the council meeting.

"There's a great possibility of this happening. A third of the money we need has already been funded locally."

The decision now lies with Elmbridge Borough Council's cabinet. If approved by them at a meeting on February 8 it will then go to the full council on February 22 for consideration.

Benl@london.newsquest.co.uk