Good news came today from The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson who mentioned that although he supports plans to redevelop the Southbank Centre, he is also behind skateboarding staying at the Undercroft. This has to be the biggest breakthrough since the beginning of this entire saga that started back in March 2013.
Following a planning meeting today, he said: “I wholeheartedly support the principle of enhancing the world-class cultural facilities at the Southbank Centre and am encouraged by many of the aspects of their plans. However, redevelopment should not be at the detriment of the skate park which should be retained in its current position.”
“The skate park is the epicentre of UK skateboarding and is part of the cultural fabric of London. This much-loved community space has been used by thousands of young people over the years. It attracts tourists from across the world and undoubtedly adds to the vibrancy of the area – it helps to make London the great city it is.”
The planning application to redevelop the Southbank Centre will eventually be considered by Lambeth Council before it is referred back to the Mayor.
More Southbank news an last week here if you missed it.
The mayor’s official press release here.