Reflecting back on the almost 100 years of history around the bandstand and skatepark, it is clear that this has been a space in Southsea that has brought together the wider community in Portsmouth. From people on deckchairs or dancing to the band, the rollerskaters, the performers, the skaters, BMXers and more, all connecting, making friends and enjoying spending time together. It’s clear that this space has also been a hub for youth culture, for many generations.

In recent years the charity has worked closely with the community with the support of local small businesses, fellow social enterprises and individual volunteers to improve the skatepark and also work in partnership to improve the lives of local people.

As a charitable organisation for over a decade, we have nurtured the talents of numerous young athletes who have gone on to achieve great success in their respective sports. One notable example is Declan Brooks, a local BMX rider who went on to become an Olympic bronze medalist in BMX Freestyle in Tokyo, a testament to the park’s role in fostering talent and providing a platform for young athletes to excel. Many other athletes have used the park as a stepping stone to success, whether through competitions, community events, or simply honing their skills.

The park has always been more than just a space for skating—it’s a vital community asset. We are proud to be led by a team of volunteers who are deeply committed to both the legacy of the park and its future. Our collective mission is to continue providing a safe, inclusive space for future generations, while also ensuring that our park is contributing positively to both the environment and the community.

The volunteer run charity took over Southsea Skatepark in 2011 and we have worked with many different social enterprises, charities and community organisations to offer the skatepark as a place they can bring participants of all ages and with different needs and support and take part in skateboarding, and more. We have had a particular focus on working with hard to reach young people and people with physical disabilities in past years, and are aiming to also expand in our partnerships to look at the arts within a skatepark environment (street art, photography and more) and supporting good mental health.

If you are part of a community organisation that would like to discuss what we can offer with coaching and other activities or if you would like to explore partnerships, please get in touch.