Issue 41 Spring web - Flipbook - Page 95
Livingston Skatepark to
join Scotland's list of
important structures
International legend Tony Hawk once skated at the world-renowned skatepark now listed by Historic
Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has designated
Livingston 'Livi' Skatepark as a listed structure at
category B.
The skatepark, which opened in 1981 and was later
extended, achieved international renown within the skate
scene from its earliest days due to its scale, ambition and
quality. Known for its very deep Double Bowl and finelytuned transitions, the skatepark is an enduring icon of the
Scottish skate and bike scene.
‘Livi’ Skatepark is the earliest surviving purpose-built
skatepark in Scotland. Concrete skateparks from this era
are increasingly rare across the UK as many have been
filled in or demolished. It is also an important example of
public enterprise architecture by Livingston Development
Corporation built to serve Livingston New Town.
Skateboarding originated in 1950s California and became
very popular in Scotland during the later 1970s. This is
when skateboarder, Kenny Omond, first approached
Livingston Development Corporation with the idea for a
skatepark.
Architect Iain Urquhart designed the skatepark after
extensive study of US skateparks and conversations with
skateboarders. As a result, the skatepark is an authentic
reflection of the skate culture of the 1970-1980s. Omond
designed an extension to the skatepark in 1992, a time
when very few skateparks were being built.
The listing of the structure ensures its significance will
inform decisions about its future.
Dara Parsons, Head of Designations at Historic
Environment Scotland, said: "We are delighted to confirm
'Livi' Skatepark as a listed building after West Lothian
Council asked us to consider designation.
“Iain Urquhart’s original design is grounded in early skate
culture, and the park is known around the world for its
pioneering design, the quality of the skating experience,
and as a prototype for later concrete skateparks.
"We are very grateful for everybody who contributed to
our public engagement, which helped us understand the
history, design, quality and experiences for those who use
the skatepark. Tony Hawk, who skated there back in
1991, described it as ‘a legendary place’, and it is clear that
this remains a highly valued creative and social space for
the community of Livingston and the skating and biking
community.
"Through designation, we hope to recognise and protect
the best examples of our cultural heritage. Listing
Scotland’s oldest skatepark helps demonstrate the variety
of our historic environment and especially the important
role the built environment of the late 20th century
structure has in telling Scotland’s story.”
Below, Livingston Skatepark
