We were fortunate to have Victoria Park Skatepark, a cornerstone of our Torbay community for the last 20 years. A hub for both youthful exhilaration and practiced mastery, its well-worn surfaces bear testament not only to the wheels of countless skateboards, scooters BMX and roller skates but to the tireless engagement of individuals whose shared dedication to their sport has forged an enduring communal bond.

The skatepark has also been a hub of street art featuring paintings that change regularly and some that were untouched due to unspoken rules of protecting a rest in piece mural, this was the case for the community at Victoria skatepark who used one of the ramps as a meeting spot and memorial for a fallen  friend. 

However,  on Friday June 21st 2024, national go skateboarding day, Torbay council published a press release stating the skatepark was deemed unsafe, beyond repair and that the demolition of the site would begin the following Monday. It has not deterred us; adults and youth alike continue to frequent the park, even navigating through fences in its demolition stage. 

The location of this skatepark is very important, Parkfield is the closest alternative skatepark and although is in good condition isn't suitable for lower skill levels and has had a history of antisocial social behaviour, whereas the victoria park location is in an open space, Easy to find, accessible, close to the train station and bus services attracting park users from outside of the bay. Allowing the choice of skatepark offers less crowded areas and a safer extreme sports community. 

The benefits of a newly paved, concrete skatepark are manifold. Not only would it offer a safer and more exciting space to skate, it will also continue to serve as an important gathering point for various community activities like youth work sessions, family outings, and other local meet-ups. Its already been proven in countless towns that skateparks nurture Physical activity, Positive youth development, and community engagement, all of which have been integral to the identity of Victoria Park Skatepark and the Torbay area. 

We are calling upon the relevant authorities to consider the impact of losing such a storied and invaluable community asset. We ask that you channel energies and resources not in moving away from Victoria Park, but in rebuilding - reinvigorating this cherished skatepark on the same cherished ground so that it can once again safely and proudly host our heartfelt pursuits and shared memories.

Help us in evolving this sanctuary of our community identity into something Torbay's youth and leaders can be proud of, pay homage to the skatepark and the memories that stood before, it's history, its legacy and invest in our youths who will be inspired watching a young British skateboarder defend her medal at the Olympics during the 2nd year skateboarding has ever been in the Olympics.

Sign our petition now, supporting the initiative to rebuild Victoria Park Skatepark with a new and improved concrete infrastructure in the same location.