Remove the padel courts at Bethnal Green Gardens

The Issue

For years, Bethnal Green Gardens has been more than just a green space in London; it has been the heart of summer rollerskating for countless enthusiasts like myself. This garden wasn't only a place where we came to skate and enjoy some recreational time; it became a vibrant hub of community spirit, collaboration, and togetherness among skaters across London.

However, the recent addition of padel courts has begun to disrupt this cherished tradition. The new courts occupy a substantial portion of the garden, significantly limiting the available space for skating events in Bethnal Green Gardens. This isn't just a logistical issue; it's an emotional one for many of us who have developed a profound connection to the gardens through skating. The presence of these courts indirectly curtails the number and scale of skating events, thereby hindering our ability to foster a sense of belonging and shared passion in the London skate scene.

Bethnal Green Gardens has always been a place where people of diverse backgrounds and experiences gather to share in the sheer joy of skating. It offers a unique venue where an important community formulates, thrives, and celebrates. The heritage and unity we have built around our skates should not be compromised by the intrusion of new developments that do not align with the existing fabric of this locale.

We understand the aim to introduce new activities in public spaces, but it should not come at the expense of established and valued community practices. A compromise or alternative location for the padel courts could create a harmonious environment for both skaters and padel players without displacing any group.

We urge the local authorities and stakeholders to reassess the placement of these padel courts. By relocating the courts, we can ensure that Bethnal Green Gardens remains a central pillar for the London skate community, preserving both our history and potential futures for new skaters. Let's safeguard our gardens as a home for rollerskaters today and tomorrow by finding a solution that respects all users of this invaluable space.

Please sign this petition and help us keep Bethnal Green Gardens a vibrant home for skaters in the heart of London.

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The Issue

For years, Bethnal Green Gardens has been more than just a green space in London; it has been the heart of summer rollerskating for countless enthusiasts like myself. This garden wasn't only a place where we came to skate and enjoy some recreational time; it became a vibrant hub of community spirit, collaboration, and togetherness among skaters across London.

However, the recent addition of padel courts has begun to disrupt this cherished tradition. The new courts occupy a substantial portion of the garden, significantly limiting the available space for skating events in Bethnal Green Gardens. This isn't just a logistical issue; it's an emotional one for many of us who have developed a profound connection to the gardens through skating. The presence of these courts indirectly curtails the number and scale of skating events, thereby hindering our ability to foster a sense of belonging and shared passion in the London skate scene.

Bethnal Green Gardens has always been a place where people of diverse backgrounds and experiences gather to share in the sheer joy of skating. It offers a unique venue where an important community formulates, thrives, and celebrates. The heritage and unity we have built around our skates should not be compromised by the intrusion of new developments that do not align with the existing fabric of this locale.

We understand the aim to introduce new activities in public spaces, but it should not come at the expense of established and valued community practices. A compromise or alternative location for the padel courts could create a harmonious environment for both skaters and padel players without displacing any group.

We urge the local authorities and stakeholders to reassess the placement of these padel courts. By relocating the courts, we can ensure that Bethnal Green Gardens remains a central pillar for the London skate community, preserving both our history and potential futures for new skaters. Let's safeguard our gardens as a home for rollerskaters today and tomorrow by finding a solution that respects all users of this invaluable space.

Please sign this petition and help us keep Bethnal Green Gardens a vibrant home for skaters in the heart of London.

The Decision Makers

Tower Hamlets
Tower Hamlets
Council
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Petition created on 14 March 2026