Skateboarding in London

The City of London is provides a range of skateboarding opportunities to residents, recognizing skateboarding as one of the fastest growing sports in Canada. In January, 2008, City Council endorsed an Outdoor Skate Park Implementation Strategy.

This strategy provides for three levels of service around the city:

• City wide skate parks which serve all skill levels but focus on medium to high skill levels
• District skate parks which serve all skill levels but focus on medium skill levels
• Neighbourhood skate parks which serve beginner to medium skill levels

This strategy will be utilized to build upon London's existing skate park inventory found at eleven locations around the city, catering to a variety of skill levels.

Please Note:  White Oaks Skate Park improvements are scheduled to happen! Please come share your knowledge and expertise in person on Monday, June 17 from 5 - 7pm at South London Community Centre - 1119 Jalna Blvd City Map.  Please help us spread the word.  We really hope to see you there (refreshments will be provided).

Benefits of skate parks

Skate parks provide unstructured opportunities for children and youth (and the young at heart!) to develop and master skills; engage in physical exercise and activity; and socialize in a constructive environment. This sport is appealing to a large segment of youth who are not otherwise drawn to more traditional (team) sports.

The City of London locates skate parks to meet personal safety and crime prevention standards and has a zero tolerance policy regarding graffiti that applies to skate parks.

For more information on skate parks in neighbourhoods see our FAQ's (pdf).

Where to skateboard

The City of London provides a number of skate parks, catering to a variety of skill levels at eleven locations around the city.

Determining future locations of skate parks

The City's Outdoor Skate Park Implementation Strategy outlines how the public participates in the planning of the three levels of skate parks. City-wide level parks and District Level parks are given a proposed location and are designed by city staff in consultation with the skate boarding community. Public input is sought on these plans before these sorts of skate parks are built or modified.

Skate parks in neighbourhood level parks will only be considered if initiated by request of proponents from the neighbourhood. These requests are registered by completion of a Neighbourhood Skate Park Notice of Interest form .

City staff will initiate consultations with the public and the skateboard community before implementing any plans regarding outdoor skate parks.

Skate Parks may only be located in parks that meet predetermined criteria that make them potentially eligible skate park sites.

Interested in an outdoor skate park in your neighbourhood?

If your neighbourhood is interested in an outdoor skate park, be sure to read the Implementation Strategy, Consultation Process and FAQ's before completing the Notice of Interest Form.

Skateboarding safety

To ensure your skateboarding experience is a safe and fun, follow the tips outlined on the fact sheet as well as following basic safety steps:

• Wear protective gear (helmet, elbow pads, knee pads)
• Ensure your skateboard is in good operating condition
• Do not attempt to use ramps, rails, pipes, ledges or pyramids above your skill level
• Skateboard with a buddy

The City of London offers skateboard lessons and camps. These programs emphasize skill development, appropriate skateboard equipment, and skate park etiquette. Look for programs in Spring/Summer Spectrum online.