The group that just would not take no for an answer has finally been given permission to run a round of the skateboarding World Cup in Bathurst to Mount Panorama.

Councillors this week rejected the advice of senior staff who had been burnt by dealings with skateboard officials during the running of the ill-fated Newton’s Nation around a decade ago and had recommended against giving the event the go-ahead.

Cr Bobby Bourke was one who appeared to change his mind on the night of the vote, saying he had been persuaded to give ASRA another go.

“But,” Cr Bourke said, “They better get it right this time because they didn't before.” If they do “get it right”, though, this could become another iconic Mount event.

The International Downhill Federation is not looking at a World Cup round in Bathurst as a one-off but, rather, plan to keep coming back year after year.

That illustrates that they are serious about developing their sport and serious about fostering a better relationship with Bathurst – for the benefit of all

Skateboarding as a competitive sport remains in its infancy but it has been described as similar to surfing 30 years ago.

And if that bold description proves correct, then Bathurst is in a perfect position to capitalise on the future growth in the sport.

This week’s decision of council is unlikely to please residents living on the Mount but closure arrangements for a skateboarding event are much different to what’s required for motor racing.

The skateboarders only need a small section at the top of the circuit and individual races last less than at a minute, so clearing the road to make way for an emergency vehicle, for example, takes no time at all.

And council has ensured all residents have alternative access to their homes so a partial closure of the road is little more than an inconvenience.

Regardless, the number of the events allowed on the Mount is written into legislation so residents are always somewhat hamstrung in their protests.

Now this fight has been run and won, though, it’s time for everyone to get behind this new event.

If a World Cup event proves a success on the Mount then Bathurst will be the real winner – and surely that’s something we can all celebrate.