Livingston Skatepark pulls off another trick with a B-listing
February 28 2024
The international importance of Livingston Skatepark to the sport and New Town development has been recognised by Historic Environment Scotland who have listed the rare example of its type at category B.
Opened in 1981 and later extended in 1992, the concrete skatepark is renowned in the sport for its deep double bowl and carefully calibrated transitions that set it apart from other examples. A proving ground for skaters and bikers the skatepark has welcomed talent at all levels throughout its life, including Tony Hawk.
Today the skatepark is recognised as an important example of public enterprise architecture by Livingston Development Corporation. Championed by local skateboarder Kenny Ormond the project was taken up by architect Iain Urquhart, who travelled to California to draw inspiration for the design. Dara Parsons, head of designations at HES, said: “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."
The listing places additional protections on the structure at a time when many contemporary examples have been filled in or demolished.
Livingston has established itself as an unlikely skateboarding mecca
The original 1980s skatepark and a later 1990s extension are now protected
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