Barking Sporthouse Skatepark Closure | London News

London’s beloved indoor skatepark, Barking Sporthouse, is set to close on August 2nd to make way for padel courts, sparking outrage among skaters who see it as a vital safe haven from outdoor harassment and theft. Despite 13 years of operation, operators GLL cite a 25% drop in visitors and annual losses, with only 3 average hourly users—far below capacity. Skaters are rallying, amassing over 2,300 petition signatures, highlighting the park’s role in nurturing Olympic hopefuls and providing safe, year-round activity for kids. National skate groups have offered support and event ideas, but their proposals went unheeded. GLL says they’re exploring relocation of equipment, while the council, which doesn’t manage the facility, can’t intervene. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8788bc3ac34471b0