PROTESTERS say they will not give up their fight against a controversial skate park - despite assurances from the council that it is in the right location.

Leading Monmouthshire county councillors met this week to endorse a decision to locate a skate park in Bulwark Park, Chepstow.

The meeting was arranged in response to a round-the-clock vigil from protesters preventing contractors from starting the project.

Protesters believe the location is unsuitable and will lead to elderly people being intimidated.

But after the meeting, leader of the council, Councillor David Waring, said: "I remain convinced that Bulwark Park is the best location for a skate park and that view is supported by Chepstow town council, the police and young people.

"However, following Friday's meeting, we have considered how we can allay the concerns of residents.

"We are prepared to put in additional landscaping and are considering an emergency telephone and the employment of a youth worker."

Councillor Andrew Crump, leader of the Conservative group said: "While we were opposed to the location of the skate park as a group, we must support the decision of the council that is legal and has been through the proper democratic process."

Monmouthshire chief executive Elizabeth Raikes said: "We hope the protesters will now leave the site peacefully and that work will recommence as soon as possible.

"The council is pursuing legal action to seek repossession of its land." Work had not started on the land yesterday and one protester, who asked to remain anonymous, said the residents were as resolute as ever.

He said: "The council say they can't man the leisure centre properly at the moment, so where are they going to find the extra staff for the skate park?

"Pensioners feel that this is the last bit of open space in the area and it will be taken from them because they will be intimidated by the skaters. We are hopeful the council will come to its senses."