Carlisle’s first indoor skate park opens tomorrow after a 10-year battle to bring such a facility to the city.

Project One is at Atlas Works in Denton Holme.

The people behind it pledge that it will be family-friendly and suitable for experienced skateboarders and beginners.

Those using scooters and BMX bikes are also welcome at the Nelson Street venue.

It is the brainchild of Skaters of Carlisle.

This not-for-profit group was set up 10 years ago with the aim of developing the city’s skater community.

The group’s volunteers include Steve Wilson, who works at Overwater Basses elsewhere in Atlas Works.

Steve says: “People have wanted this for a long time. It was finding a landlord who was sympathetic towards us and wouldn’t charge a crazy amount.”

Carlisle’s nearest indoor skate park is at Gateshead.

There is an outdoor skate park at Devonshire Walk, next to Bitts Park.

But Cumbrian weather can be a deterrent to using the park, as can its condition.

Project One is in a former taekwondo studio. Work to convert it started in June.

A plywood floor has been built over the flagstones. There are five fixed ramps and several moveable boxes and rails.

It has been built by volunteers with help from local businesses, Carlisle Vineyard Church and Trinity School.

There will be coaching sessions and classes for beginners and girls, and dedicated sessions for skaters, BMXs and scooters, and open sessions.

The venue is available for private hire.

“It’s for everyone,” says Steve. “We want to create a friendly environment where people can learn.”

Under-11s will need to be accompanied by an adult.

Project One opens tomorrow at midday. A one-hour session costs £2.

There is also a drop-in session between 3-5pm today to meet the team.

Entrance is through the red door next to The Uniform Shop.