About the project

After helping to develop the original Flo Skatepark over in Nottingham back in 2021 (see how we did this here) and Kaset Skatepark over in King’s Lynn too, we went on to support Flo Skatepark in establishing its new home in Derby, after the Nottingham site was being forced to close to make way for a bridge development.

The project has been a real collaboration across the community delivering true social value. Working in partnership with Derby City Council and Places for People, and alongside a wide network of local businesses and national construction partners, VIY played a key role in helping bring the new site to life.

This included partners such as Acorn Signs & Engraving, Balfour Beatty, Barrett Group, Collins Earthworks, Dulux, Falcon Timber, Galldris Group, Juice Electrical, Keltbray, Lyreco, MKM, Sunbelt Rentals, Tarmac, Tarkett and Travis Perkins, who supported the delivery through materials, and their time and expertise.

The new Flo Skatepark in Derby was developed as a high-quality indoor skateboarding destination. It provides a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages and abilities to learn, practise and progress year-round and it will have a lasting positive impact on skateboarding locally and regionally. It also creates opportunities for coaching, events and competitions, while supporting active lifestyles and reinforcing Derby’s commitment to inclusive, youth-focused spaces that deliver wider community benefit.

The Project

VIY supported Flo Skatepark through the hands-on construction of the skatepark itself – including building the street plaza, beginners zone, as well as a large-scale refurbishment of four existing units that were in disrepair. These were transformed into kitchen space, reception, viewing zones, and other multi-use functional areas – including a hireable indoor classroom and spaces for community and commercial use – helping to support the long-term sustainability of the park.

The works involved stripping out existing fittings and fixtures and transforming the units into new, functional spaces aligned with Flo’s vision of safe, accessible community use. Reclaimed materials from the original Flo Skatepark in Nottingham were reused where possible, including timber from ramps and steel from rails. This reduced waste, supported cost efficiency, and helped carry the character and history of the original park into the new space.

Young people

• 43 local young people took part through VIY (referred via Derby College, Derby Youth Justice Service, Derby Job Centre, Derby Skills Academy, and Step Up Derby), gaining hands-on experience and being mentored by VIY Trade Mentors while directly helping to build the skatepark.
• 86% of young people gained Entry Level 3 City & Guilds qualifications, and built confidence through real-world project delivery. This is already supporting progression into further training, apprenticeships and employment pathways

100% of learners felt more confident about getting a job in the future as a result of the skills gained through their involvement in building the skatepark as part of the VIY project.

A young person said: “I’ve really enjoyed working on building the new skate park and learning new skills from the mentors. It’s definitely helped me develop my joinery skills, and I know it will support me when making decisions about my future career.”

🎥See behind the scenes of this project here.