One of Bristol’s most iconic buildings is set to be transformed into an indoor skatepark. Work is already underway to transform the former Debenhams building on The Horsefair, which closed its doors back in 2021, into a ‘vibrant new skate park’.
It will be located on the lower ground floor of the disused building, transforming it temporarily into what is being described as “a dynamic one-of-a-kind urban destination for visitors of all ages”.
The project is being led by Bristol-based not-for-profit Campus Skateboarding. The organisation worked closely with law firm Thrings to secure a short-term lease for the space, and has now been granted licensing permission with an opening date scheduled for March this year.
The designers say they aim to create a ‘skate plaza’ in the space – which makes use of the size of the space, the smoothness of the floor and mimic some obstacles from street skating.
There are hopes that the space will be able to host other alternative sports and activities, such as bike polo and a roller derby, being suitable for both competitive and casual riders. There will even be an onsite bar led by the team behind The Dame in Bedminster.
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Tim Nokes, director of Campus Skateboarding, said: “Breathing new life into this historic site that many Bristolians will know well is a very exciting prospect, as we look to create an amazing new venue that caters to a wide range of interests while fostering a sense of inclusivity and creativity. We are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to share the experience with everyone very soon.”
Other businesses included in the project include Wheelscape skatepark designers, Extract Coffee, Bristol Distillery Co, Bristol Beer Factory, Wiper & True, and Rock Solid Distribution.
James Woodard, director of Hartnell Taylor Cook, which represent the landlord, said: “When we were asked to try and come up with a temporary use for a closed department store, the options for standard retailers were limited, so we needed to think outside the box. The rise of leisure in city centres got us thinking about how we could use the big open space and we quickly landed on a skate park concept.
“We thought it might be a difficult sell, but Campus have such a strong reputation for their brilliant skate facilities, and the temporary parks that they set up at festivals, schools and other central locations, that the idea quickly gained traction. They became the party we were most excited to approach and were delighted when it was a project we were able to push forward. Their mix of skate and other sports, along with supporting food and drink options, will be truly unique for such a central location and a project with which we were proud to be involved.”