Derelict swimming pool becomes world class skatepark

When the Olympic size swimming pool in Hengrove in Bristol opened, it spelt the end for the forty year-old pool in nearby Bishopsworth.But rather than knock it down, its new tenants have found an ingenious use for it.

The former pool in Whitchurch Lane shut in 2012 and after a public consultation, locals chose to turn it into a skatepark. They used giant slabs of polystyrene under the concrete, and gradually revolutionised the look of the building.

The park's been developed by a not-for-profit enterprise, who are leasing the building from Bristol City Council. They have added a shop and have plans for a cafe too.

Aside from the swimming pool origins, there is a particulary unusual feature about this park. It's the only indoor concrete skatepark in England, and that wasn't a cheap option.

The company has a 25 year lease on the building from the council, so with a bit of luck it will be around for the next generation.