A SKATE park is moving to a new, purpose-built premises to make way for development.

The volunteer-run Lewes Skatehouse will move from the Phoenix Industrial Estate in North Street, Lewes, to a new all-weather facility in Denton Island in Newhaven some seven miles away.

The move will free up land for a 15-acre development programme in the North Street area by Lewes District Council and developers Santon North Street.

A council spokesman said: "Lewes District Council has acted pro-actively by identifying unused land and setting aside funds to provide a new home for skaters.

"This demonstrates the council’s commitment and promise to assist businesses to relocate."

The authority is also planning to invest up to £530,000 on unused land at Denton Island.

Councillor Bill Giles, lead member for finance at Lewes District Council, said: “By investing in land that we own and developing sought-after facilities on it, we are able to increase our rental income and also provide a new facility for Lewes Skatehouse.

"Thanks to a truly creative approach by everyone involved, we will be able to offer for rent to Skatehouse, a purpose built facility that is close to transport links and situated on Denton Island, close to Sussex Downs Community College.

"This will increase the options for participation from younger people.”

Claire Heath, director of The Skatehouse, thanked Santon for providing their premises until now in the Phoenix Estate.

She said the venue had "flourished in the last four years, offering an invaluable service to the local and wider community".

Ms Heath added: "We are overjoyed that Lewes District Council have recognised our potential and are investing in our enterprise."

Clive Wilding, director of Santon North Street, said: “We will continue to work closely with Lewes District Council, both in our support for local community groups that provide valuable services in Lewes and in the landmark development of the North Street Quarter.”

The Skatehouse opened in 2012 after skaters got funding from a Barclays Bank competition.

It is a community Interest Company and a not-for-profit organisation ran soley by volunteers.