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THE ESSENTIAL STRUCTURAL AND SURFACE REPAIRS WILL ENSURE THE CONTINUED USE AND PRESERVATION OF THE SKATEPARK. ROSS THOMSON 15:40, 29 May 2025 West Lothian Council has been granted planning

permission to undertake improvement works to Livingston Skatepark. The essential structural and surface repairs will ensure the continued use and preservation of the skatepark. Special

permission is required to undertake works on listed buildings and facilities which is why planning permission was required. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) designated Livingston ‘Livi’

Skatepark as a listed structure at category B last year. READ MORE: High risk West Lothian rapist jailed for 10 years The skatepark, which opened in 1981 and was later extended, achieved

international renown within the skate scene from its earliest days due to its scale, ambition and quality. Historic Environment Scotland has been consulted on the proposals and has no

objections to the development. No public comments have been received on the application. Article continues below At this stage, design plans have been drawn up and planning permission has

been granted. Council officers and the contractor will work on scheduling and agreeing the programme of works which is likely to take place later this year. Once the works are programmed,

the council will issue further communication to advise on timescales and duration of works. READ MORE: West Lothian swim coach who thought stage 4 cancer diagnosis meant curtains for him is

feeling great A council spokesperson said: “Given the value of the skatepark locally, nationally and internationally, it is important that the quality of the structure is maintained to

ensure longevity. “Whilst over the years minor repairs to the surface have been undertaken, it has reached a point where repairs of a greater scale are required to certain areas of the park

to include replacement of sections (pools).” The planning application states that “It is encouraging that the applicant has engaged a specialist to understand and recommend the appropriate

restoration and repair works.” Betongpark are a team of designers and construction experts who have experience restoring some of the UK’s most iconic skateable spaces, including Stockwell

skatepark and the Southbank Undercroft. READ MORE: Garden centre hosting free Rose-themed Grow How workshop at Livingston store They said: “It is a privilege for us at Betongpark to be

working on Livingston Skatepark, which is undoubtedly one of the most historically significant skateparks worldwide. After decades of constant use and plenty of rain, the skatepark is in

need of refurbishment works. “Working closely alongside our engineering team, Skateboard Scotland and the locals at Livingston, we are confident that restorative works will drastically

improve the riding experience for visitors. “Following a detailed survey of the skatepark conducted earlier this year, we are proposing a variety of tried and tested refurbishment techniques

to improve the skateable surface, including concrete polishing as a sustainable alternative to demolition.” Article continues below All works will be compliant with Livingston’s listed

status and true to it its original form, designed by the legendary architect Ian Urquhart. DON'T MISS THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE WEST LOTHIAN COURIER. SIGN UP TO OUR FREE NEWSLETTER HERE.