Former supermarket turned into indoor skatepark

By Barney Riley via SWNS

A disused Sainsbury's supermarket has been turned into an indoor skatepark.

The community-center project has seen the space transformed to help "unlock long-term regeneration opportunities."

The venue is open to skaters, BMXers, scooter riders and roller bladers.

The Pitt Street skatepark in Portsmouth, England is located in the city center and was formerly a large branch of Sainsbury's.

Located on Commercial Street, the skatepark will be open to all ages and encourages locals to pick up a new skill.

Founder and skater at Pitt Street Jacob Skinner was inspired to support the project after skateboarding helped him as a youngster.

Jacob said: "As a child, skateboarding was my outlet and I want to give others the opportunity to use it in a positive way.

"We are really passionate about changing the view of skateboarding in the community, it’s also so important to remember that you are never too old to skate.

"We want to bring the community together through this venue and encourage people of all ages to get involved.”

In an effort to be inclusive for the whole community, sessions such as the "silver surfers" and "teeny boppers" will allow those of all ages to get stuck in.

Local councillor Steve Pitt said: “It’s fantastic to see this empty building transformed for the community.

"Pitt Street Skatepark gives a real opportunity for people to come together and explore a new passion.

"Congratulation to the team behind it, it’s a big achievement.

"We know this area has huge potential to help transform the city center and using empty spaces like this is a great way to start to unlock new community facilities and business opportunities while we develop long-term regeneration plans.”