Historic South London Skatepark Set for Half-Million-Pound Revamp
Lambeth Council has pledged a substantial £566,000 investment to revitalize the iconic Kennington Park Skatebowl, affectionately known as Kenny by local enthusiasts. This legendary skatepark, nestled on the north side of Kennington Park near the war memorial, has been a cornerstone of London's skateboarding, BMX, and rollerblading scenes since its opening in 1978.
A Storied Past and Community Advocacy
Designed by Lorne Edwards, often hailed as the grandfather of British skateboarding, the Kennington Park Skatebowl is one of the capital's oldest skate spots. Over the decades, it has garnered a loyal following, but recent years have seen it fall into disrepair due to wear and tear, forcing its closure. In response, the Friends of Kennington Park (FoKP) group launched a petition in September 2025, calling on Lambeth Council to honor previous commitments to restore the bowl.
The petition, supported by Skateboard GB, the national governing body for skateboarding in Britain, amassed over 2,500 signatures. This grassroots effort successfully pressured the council to allocate funds for the skatepark's renewal, highlighting the community's dedication to preserving this cultural landmark.
Technical Challenges and Proposed Solutions
This is not the first attempt to refurbish the Kennington Park Skatebowl. In May 2012, Converse, in collaboration with California Skateparks, undertook a renovation under its Fix to Ride scheme. The project involved re-surfacing the concrete and adding modern elements, but underlying issues with the foundation—specifically, tree roots beneath the original tarmac court—caused the surface to distort quickly, leading to renewed deterioration.
To address these persistent problems, Lambeth Council's proposed works will include installing screw-pile foundations to provide a more permanent solution and realigning concrete slabs. Specialized contractors with expertise in skateboard-grade concrete fabrication and finishing will be engaged to ensure high-quality renovations. Additional extensive work will encompass asbestos remediation, essential concrete repairs, grinding and polishing, and the design and construction of an access ramp.
Broader Context and Future Impact
The restoration of Kenny is part of Lambeth Council's broader Capital Investment Programme, which aims to reinvest £74.5 million into public services and community initiatives across the borough. This project underscores the council's commitment to enhancing recreational facilities and supporting local culture. Once completed, the revamped skatepark is expected to once again serve as a vibrant hub for athletes and enthusiasts, fostering community engagement and promoting active lifestyles in south London.
