OTTERY S long-awaited skate park bid has inched closer to becoming a reality after a crucial concession was made over the piece of land which will house it.

OTTERY'S long-awaited skate park bid has inched closer to becoming a reality after a crucial concession was made over the piece of land which will house it.

Heated debate on Friday led to members of Devon County Council's (DCC) farm estates committee agreeing to lease its land at Higher Thorne Farm Way to either East Devon District or Ottery town council for 20 years.

Before the meeting the �150,000 skate park bid had been set for a knockback after it was recommended the land only be leased for five years, a decision which driving forces behind it feared would lead to fundraising disaster.

"We are looking for �100,000 of investment, who would give that to a skate park which would only be there for five years," said county councillor Roger Giles. "That members agreed 20 years is a good step forward and key in gaining investment. We are more likely to attract funding now."

Earlier this year Ottery town council agreed to "adopt" the site and lease it from DCC. The farm estate committee's decision could now see the council assume responsibility for the land's maintenance but not for ramps or equipment on it.

Secretary of the Ottery and District Skate and BMX Group, Elli Pang, described Friday's decision as a "major step". She said supporters of the park are working hard behind the scenes on various aspects including project management and fundraising.