Evicted charity opens 'world-class' skatepark
BBCA skating charity has opened a new skatepark in Derby after relocating from neighbouring Nottingham.
A skate jam took place on Saturday to mark the opening of the new 20,828 sq ft Flo Skatepark, at the Derbion in the city centre in April.
The site inside the former Eagle Market gives Flo a new home after their Nottingham facility had to close in 2024 to make way for a new River Trent footbridge.
Mark Deans, chair of the Flo Charitable Trust, said opening the indoor skatepark was "a new era".
"It can only get better and better from here," said Deans.
"The park is there to be used by a whole range of small wheels.
"In the past, we've taken somebody from being a beginner to being a national champion, even onto then bringing pipeline Olympians from Skateboard GB to Derby to train.
"You can have a go for the first time or train for the Olympics at this park or anywhere in between."
Facilities range from a beginners' area to a vert ramp and bowl for seasoned skaters.
Beth McDonald, managing director of Derbion, which has supported the skate facility alongside new padel courts, said the Flo Skatepark was "world-class" and would "unite sport, culture and community".
Before relocating, the charity helped produce a number of top skateboarders, including Nottingham's Miriam Nelson, who was the UK Women's champion in 2022 and 2023.
She was at the Derbion opening jam, and said: "Anyone can come down and learn how to skate, and also it's a safe place for people to skate.
"A lot of people might feel like they don't feel safe skating in outdoor parks, like women and young people. It's amazing."
Derby City Council leader Nadine Peatfield said: "This is a brilliant addition to our city centre, providing a world-class space where people of all ages can come together to stay active and inspired.
"This opening marks another milestone in the regeneration of our city centre, and I can't wait to see the positive impact it will have."
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