THE new Blackbird Leys skatepark could kickstart improvements in Frys Hill, it has been claimed.

Jamie Murray, of the environmental charity Groundworks, said that it was hoped the £60,000 skatepark would lead to new projects.

He said: “We are putting together a grant bid for funding for other areas of Frys Hill, and will work with the city council on that in early 2013.

“There are a number of improvement proposals we would like to see and are seeking additional funding for.”

Oxford City Council has been working with the Prince’s Foundation to create a masterplan to regenerate the Blackbird Leys area, including Frys Hill.

Mr Murray did not have specifics of what the funding bid would call for yet.

The council has been holding consultation events on the Blackbird Leys regeneration plan, the most recent of which was last Tuesday.

Residents are being asked what their priorities are for the area, and their views will inform future funding bids.

The skatepark has not yet officially opened, as Blackbird Leys Parish Council has asked the constructors to price up a railing ramp for skaters to practise on.

However, according to the contractors, the sum could be four or five figures.

Mr Murray said: “The issue is the tarmac the ramp was built on was never intended to take that strain so it may have to be relaid.

“We will come back to the parish council in the new year and see how much money they have kicking around.

“It’s great to see that although it hasn’t opened there have been quite a few kids using it, and it has been having a positive effect.”

Mark Lygo, city council board member for parks and sport, said: “It’s an exciting time for the area, and the skatepark is one area of it.

“It is about leaving a legacy.”

Parish council chairman Gordon Roper said a decision would be made in January whether enough funds could be generated to pay for the improvements.

He said that initial feedback from youth groups was positive, but that the extra installations would improve the park “beyond measure”.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: “Prior to its opening, many people raised concerns that the new skatepark on Frys Hill would attract antisocial behaviour. We have not received any reports of any nature in regards to the skatepark.

“Our team has been at the skatepark on many occasions and have seen no evidence of anti social behaviour, just young people hanging out and enjoying themselves, which is great to see and report.”