A plan to extend the Folkestone Gardens play area is currently underway. The flat tarmac surrounding the main concrete features will be replaced with grass mounds. Losing this significant part of the skatepark would have a lasting negative impact on the quality of the whole space for all who use it. 

The tarmac is an integral part of the skatepark's design. It provides an essential run up/run off area for skatepark users, flat ground for skating/riding on, whilst also being a safety buffer zone between the skatepark and the court/playground.  The council’s plan to eliminate the tarmac area next to the skatepark ignores the needs of skatepark users and increases rather than decreases the risk of injury to users of both areas. The skatepark gets very busy and can be quite an intimidating place as it is, any loss of space will marginalise beginner and younger users of the facility.

Our aim is to open up a conversation with the council about this matter, in order to reach an outcome where the skatepark community is being taken into consideration through the coming changes.

Folkestone Gardens skatepark, the sports court and their immediate surrounding area provide a necessary recreational space for hundreds of young people and adults who skateboard, inline, bmx, and scooter. It is a vital safe space and a community haven which we hope will be here for years to come. Help us raise awareness and support the London skate community by signing the petition asking the council to rethink their design. Thanks <3