Major ‘skate jam’ event marks skatepark’s arrival at Derbion

A new skatepark has celebrated its opening at Derbion with a major event which attracted amateur and professional skaters from across the region and beyond.

Flow Skatepark’s ‘skate jam’ event not only marked the opening of the new venue but also its 12 ft ‘vert ramp’ – the first of its kind to be hosted at a UK shopping centre.

The opening event, which attracted team members from Skateboard GB, featured games and activities from the ramp’s sponsor, Subway, as well as a “bowl jam” where skaters were invited to test out the new bowl for the first time, with a number of graffiti artists creating live art on the walls.

Flo Skatepark officially opened at Derbion on 8 April, following an extensive transformation of the former Eagle Market space.

The new venue, operated by Flo Charitable Trust, has been funded by many investors including significant investment from Derbion and Derby City Council, and supported by groups and organisations such as Sport England and Skateboard GB.

The 20,828 sq ft facility offers visitors of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy lessons in a variety of wheeled sports and community events and meet-ups that aim to inspire the next generation of skaters.

The opening of Flo follows the arrival of indoor padel venue Social Sports Society and marks the start of a unique leisure offering at Derbion, alongside the recent completion of the centre’s Eastern Gateway development, which introduced a revitalised public boulevard and new and improved entrance.

Beth McDonald, managing director at Derbion, said: “It was fantastic to witness so many skaters of all ages come together to celebrate the opening of Flo’s world-class vert ramp, and a full-circle moment to enjoy our new leisure hub in all its glory after a significant transformation.

“We’re extremely proud to say that we are the only shopping centre in the UK to offer such unique leisure experiences, with the exciting combination of sports venues Flo Skatepark and Social Sports Society adding to our ever-growing variety of retailers and restaurants.

“This celebration event is the first of many, and we’re excited to continue to see local people united through sport, culture and community.”