Goldsmiths to lead groundbreaking audit of UK’s skateable spaces
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Researchers and academic staff from Goldsmiths have been selected by Skateboard GB to conduct the first ever comprehensive audit of skateable spaces across the UK.

This collaborative initiative with Betongpark, specialists in skatepark design and construction, will combine Goldsmiths’ research excellence and expertise in urban design, cultural studies and community engagement to explore the design, use, accessibility, and cultural significance of skateboarding spaces nationwide.
The project aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the current landscape for skateboarding in the UK and support the identification of opportunities to improve and expand access to high-quality skateable spaces. This audit will play a crucial role in supporting the growth of skateboarding, which has seen a surge in popularity since its debut as an Olympic sport in 2021.
Skateboarding has the power to bring people together, foster creativity, and transform public spaces, and this Goldsmiths-led audit aims to lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future for skateboarding in the UK.

Dr Esther Sayers, Senior Lecturer in Educational Studies
The audit is being led by Dr Esther Sayers, who as well as being a passionate skateboarder herself, is a Senior Lecturer in Educational Studies at Goldsmiths. Dr Sayers’s research interests are learning and participation in the arts, culture and sport, specifically through the lens of equity and inclusion. Joining her is fellow Goldsmiths academic, George Nicholls whose expertise is in data analysis, statistics and computing.
Speaking about this exciting project, Dr Sayers said, "Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a vital part of urban culture and community.”
This audit is a unique opportunity to better understand how skateable spaces can be designed and managed to support diverse communities, encourage physical activity, and enhance public spaces.
Dr Esther Sayers, Educational Studies

Cann Hall Skatepark, London E11 which was built by Betongpark
As well as Betongpark, the Goldsmiths team will be joined by representatives from various grassroots skating networks and communities who will act as ‘co-researchers’, sharing their valuable local knowledge and insights. This collaborative approach will support the team to:
- Map and evaluate every skateable space across the UK, collecting data about their usage, design, features, condition, and management.
- Assess the inclusivity and accessibility of these spaces for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
- Engaging with local communities, skateboarders, and stakeholders to gather insights into how skateable spaces are being used as well as the needs and aspirations of users.
Along with our creative and interdisciplinary approach to research and education, Goldsmiths is committed to driving positive social change by working collaboratively with community and industry partners. The aspiration is that Skateboard GB will use the findings of this audit to inform a ‘Skateable Spaces Strategy’ with the intention of influencing future national and local investment in skateable spaces in the UK.

It will also contribute to Skateboard GB's ongoing mission to promote the benefits of skateboarding and support its development at all levels.
Stay tuned for updates on the findings of this exciting project as Dr Sayers and the team progress this important work.