Barking Sporthouse will close its indoor skatepark on August 2, 2026, with the space set to be replaced by padel courts. The decision affects skateboarders, BMX riders, scooter users, inline skaters, families and young athletes who depend on one of London’s few large indoor wheeled-sports facilities.
A campaign to stop the closure has gathered more than 2,300 petition signatures. Supporters say the skatepark is a safe, weatherproof community venue with an important role in coaching and competitive development.
When is Barking indoor skatepark closing?
The final scheduled operating date is Sunday, August 2. The skatepark is inside Barking Sporthouse and Gym at Mayesbrook Park, Lodge Avenue, Dagenham, RM8 2JR.
It offers more than 900 square metres of ramp terrain, including a beginner area, street section, ledges, flat bars, Euro gaps and a keyhole birchwood bowl. The venue serves riders of different ages and abilities.
Better has listed 90-minute sessions at ÂŁ9.95 for adults and ÂŁ7.95 for children. Visitors should confirm opening times, prices and booking availability before travelling.
Why is the skatepark being replaced?
GLL, which manages Barking Sporthouse under its Better brand, says the decision followed a review of the facility’s long-term sustainability. Padel courts will replace the skatepark as part of a wider £2 million modernisation project.
GLL says the park has made a financial loss every year during its 13 years at Barking Sporthouse. Visitor numbers fell by 25% between 2024 and 2025, while current use reportedly averages fewer than three visits per hour despite capacity for up to 60 users.
The operator’s official Barking Sporthouse announcement confirms the closure date and redevelopment plans.
Why campaigners dispute the decision
Campaigners say the attendance figures should be considered alongside reduced opening hours and increased admission charges. They argue that these changes made the park less accessible to families and regular riders.
They also say offers to attract new users through coaching, events and stronger promotion were not taken forward. GLL maintains that it tried several participation initiatives but has not publicly detailed each measure.
Why Eleanor Dunlop launched the petition
Eleanor Dunlop began the petition after learning from centre management that the park would close. It describes the facility as nationally important because young riders, including potential Olympic hopefuls, need dependable places to train throughout the year.
Dunlop says skateboarding has helped her cope with several health problems and that the Barking venue provided activity, friendship and a sense of safety. She previously experienced harassment and had her belongings stolen while skating outdoors.
Parents also use the indoor park as a supervised place where children can ride scooters and remain active. Campaigners argue that padel courts will serve a different audience and will not replace the benefits offered by the skatepark.
What Skateboard GB offered to do
Skateboard GB says it met Better Barking’s management in 2025 and recommended coaching sessions, events, improved promotion and closer engagement with the local skating community.
The governing body says those recommendations were not implemented to its knowledge. It has requested an urgent meeting with GLL about community consultation and possible support but says it has not received a response.
Why outdoor parks are not a direct replacement
GLL points to nine free outdoor skateparks across Barking and Dagenham. Campaigners say those sites are not equivalent because rain, darkness and winter conditions can prevent regular use.
A staffed indoor facility can also feel safer for women, children and families. Year-round access allows beginners to learn consistently and competitive riders to maintain structured training.
Can the council stop the closure?
Barking and Dagenham Council says it does not operate the leisure centre and has no power to prevent GLL’s decision. It has requested more information about the review and its implications.
Barking MP Nesil Caliskan has met campaigners and supported calls to retain the facility. Her involvement may increase pressure for further discussions but does not cancel the August closure.
The dispute forms part of a wider debate about how limited London space is allocated, also seen in plans for the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street.
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What will happen to the ramps?
GLL and the council are discussing whether the ramps and equipment could be reused elsewhere in the borough. No alternative site, relocation date or funding arrangement has been confirmed.
An outdoor relocation would preserve some equipment but would not provide the same all-weather experience. No replacement indoor skatepark has been announced.
The closure will also happen during wider disruption across the capital, including the 22-day closure of Charing Cross and Waterloo East.
Can the petition save the skatepark?
The petition cannot legally force GLL to reverse its decision, but it demonstrates public opposition and supports demands for consultation. Campaigners want GLL to pause the padel conversion and consider coaching, events or partnerships that could make the skatepark sustainable.
Unless GLL announces a change, August 2 remains the confirmed closing date.
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