News / skateboarding
Hope for south Bristol’s ‘forgotten’ skatepark
A group is hoping to revive a “forgotten” skatepark and transform it into one “that Bristol deserves”.
Bristol has several skate spots which are pivotal to the city’s thriving skate scene – including on Dean Lane, St George Wheelpark and the Bear Pit.
Victoria Park Skatepark was built in 2005 but users say it was “instantly forgotten” – with no mention of the space on the council’s website or in the UK skatepark directory.
is needed now More than ever
Now a collective is hoping to revamp the facility in Bedminster and turn it into something “meaningful”.
Bristol Skatepark Collective is a not-for-profit organisation focused on improving skatepark facilities in the city.
The group of local parents, skateboarders, and business owners say “a great skatepark can have a huge impact on its local community.”
According to the collective, Victoria Park Skatepark is a neglected space in dire need of updating to safely accommodate increased users.
Currently, they say the park resembles “a derelict piece of tarmac that holds excellent potential for dramatic improvements”.
Bristol Skatepark Collective have secured funding of £130,000 so far, but need £20,000 more to “really transform the park”.
The skatepark is close to St Mary Redcliffe Primary School to the west of Victoria Park – photo: Betty Woolerton
“We believe free outdoor wheel park facilities in Bristol are not good enough and do not reflect the needs and demands of children, young people, and the local wheel park community,” said the collective.
They added: “Victoria Park Skatepark could be one of the best spots in Bristol. Unfortunately, due to poor block layout and unsuitable tarmac surface, it is virtually un-skateable.
“However, there are now some funds available to improve the park. Our aim is to fund match these and give Vicky Park something to be proud of.
“One skatepark at a time but, we’re not forgetting about Vicky Park. No sir.”
The collective’s fundraising plea is backed by Bristol City Council, Victoria Park Action Group and local residents.
To donate, visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/victoria-park-skatepark
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
Read more: How DIY skateparks reassert ownership over the city’s abandoned spaces
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