My son (Louis Tingle 1986-2004) spent the best part of his life at the Southbank skateboarders’ undercroft (Debate May 17): perfecting his craft, making friends and participating in the most unique and diverse space in London.

Southbank

Source: iStock

Wipeout: the Southbank Centre’s plans would involve moving the skate park.

A few weeks ago I was invited to the first meeting on the future of the skateboarders and it seemed to me to be a fait accompli. The discussion was about the details of the new skateboarding area being submitted for planning.

How ironic that a “heritage space” is proposed to document the history of the skateboarders after killing them off! OK, they are to be moved around the corner to their “purpose-built” space — an anathema for skateboarders if ever there was one — and maybe they will move on, but to where in this increasingly privatised, theme-parked London?

If the restaurants have to happen, why not think a bit more creatively? Build around the spectacle. Not in a zoo-like way, but perhaps diners could catch glimpses of feet through the air and fast-moving shadows. Make the skateboarders part of the experience of being at the South Bank, part of the continuation of history rather than the end of a story pinned on a wall.

Sarah Boyd
London SE15

 

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