Nestled behind an Aldi supermarket in Selly Oak, Birmingham, Bournbrook DIY Skate Park is no ordinary skatepark. It’s a grassroots marvel, built by skateboarders for skateboarders, and has become a symbol of community spirit and creativity. What started as an abandoned, overgrown concrete slab has transformed into one of the most celebrated skateboarding spaces in the UK. This blog delves into the fascinating story of Bournbrook Skate Park, its unique features, and its impact on the local community.

The Birth of Bournbrook DIY

The origins of Bournbrook DIY Skate Park trace back to the first COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Amidst government restrictions and the closure of official skateparks, local skater Shaun Boyle saw potential in an unused concrete area surrounded by graffiti-covered walls. With help from fellow skaters like "French Matt" and professional builder James 'Hem' Hemming (RIP 🙏), they began clearing the space, removing bushes, and repurposing materials to create skateable features. Their first creation was a simple grind box made from curbs they found nearby.

What makes Bournbrook truly special is its evolution from a DIY project into a fully recognized skatepark. In 2021, it became the first-ever DIY skatepark in the UK to gain official status from a local council. This milestone was achieved through collaboration with Birmingham City Council and adherence to British safety standards, including inspections by ROSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents).

A Skatepark Built by the Birmingham Skateboard Community

Bournbrook DIY is not just a skatepark; it’s a testament to what can be accomplished through collective effort. Over 1,500 volunteer hours went into cleaning, building, and landscaping the space. Local businesses like Selco Builders Merchants donated materials such as bricks and cement, while organizations like Vans and Skateboard GB provided funding support.

The park’s features include ramps, ledges, hips, and banks—all crafted with precision and passion. The community even planted flowers and small trees around the park, turning it into a welcoming green space that appeals to skaters and non-skaters alike.

1. First Official DIY Skatepark
   Bournbrook holds the distinction of being the first DIY skatepark in the UK to achieve official recognition from a local council.

2. Olympic Connection
   The park has attracted top-tier talent, including Bombette Martin, a female skateboarder who represented Great Britain at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Some top tier shit yo.

3. A Budget-Friendly Marvel
   While professional skateparks of similar size can cost upwards of £150,000 to construct, Bournbrook was built for a fraction of that cost thanks to volunteer labor and material donations.

4. A Hub for Beginners
   Every Saturday morning, Bournbrook offers free skateboarding lessons for beginners, fostering inclusivity and encouraging new participants in the sport.

5. Graffiti Legacy
   The park is located in an area historically known for its graffiti art. This creative backdrop adds to its urban charm and reflects its roots as a reclaimed space.

Skate Park Challenges Along the Way

Despite its success, Bournbrook has faced numerous challenges. Initially met with resistance from Birmingham City Council, the project only gained approval after significant progress had already been made on-site. More recently, there have been threats to demolish the park to make way for commercial development (Fuck you Aldi🖕). However, strong community support—including petitions—has helped protect this vital skateboarding space so far. Long live Bournbrook

Impact on the Local Community

Bournbrook DIY has revitalized Selly Oak in multiple ways:

• Youth Engagement: The park provides a safe space for young people to socialize and be active.

• Skill Development: Volunteers learned valuable trade skills during construction, which could lead to future career opportunities 2 .

• Economic Boost: The park attracts skaters from across Birmingham and beyond, benefiting local businesses.

• Mental Health Benefits: Skating at Bournbrook fosters psychological well-being through physical activity and social interaction 2 6 .

The Future of Bournbrook

The team behind Bournbrook has ambitious plans for expansion. They aim to add more ramps and features to accommodate skaters of all skill levels while preserving its DIY ethos. Additionally, Birmingham Skate Spaces CIC—the organization managing Bournbrook—hopes to replicate its success at other sites across Birmingham.

However, securing long-term protection for the park remains a priority. The community continues to advocate for its preservation amidst ongoing development pressures.

Why Bournbrook Matters to the Birmingham Skateboarding Community

Bournbrook DIY Skate Park is more than just a place to skate; it’s a beacon of grassroots activism and community resilience. It showcases how creativity and determination can transform neglected spaces into thriving hubs of activity and connection.

In an era where public spaces are increasingly privatised or neglected, projects like Bournbrook remind us of the power of collective action. Whether you’re an experienced skater or someone who simply appreciates urban innovation, Bournbrook is worth celebrating—and protecting for future generation of brum skaters.