West Lothian Council has been granted planning permission to undertake essential structural and surface repairs at Livingston Skatepark, an internationally renowned facility that was designated a Category B listed structure by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) last year.

The need for special planning permission stemmed from the skatepark's listed status, which it received due to its scale, ambition, and quality, having achieved international acclaim within the skate scene since its opening in 1981. HES was consulted on the proposals and raised no objections to the development, and no public comments were received on the application.

With design plans now drawn up and planning permission secured, council officers and the contractor will proceed with scheduling and agreeing the programme of works. These crucial repairs are likely to take place later this year, with further communication on timescales and duration to be issued once finalised.

The HES listing describes Livingston 'Livi' Skatepark as a purpose-built, outdoor concrete skatepark in Almondvale Park, completed in 1980 and opened in 1981 by Livingston Development Corporation, based on designs by Iain Urquhart (executed by Rainbow Construction Ltd). Later extensions date to 1992 (designed by Kenny Omond) and 2015 (Gravity Engineering Ltd). The skatepark is set within a landscaped public park above the south bank of the River Almond.

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The application for the works was accompanied by a survey report undertaken by specialist designers and construction experts, Betongpark, who will carry out the refurbishment on behalf of the council. Given the skatepark's local, national, and international significance, maintaining the quality of its structure for longevity is paramount. While minor surface repairs have been undertaken over the years, the park has reached a point where larger-scale repairs, including the replacement of certain sections (pools), are necessary.

The planning application's approval noted: "It is encouraging that the applicant has engaged a specialist to understand and recommend the appropriate restoration and repair works."

Betongpark, renowned for restoring iconic skateable spaces such as Stockwell skatepark and the Southbank Undercroft in the UK, expressed their privilege in working on Livingston Skatepark. They stated: "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."

All works will be meticulously compliant with Livingston's listed status and aim to remain true to its original form, as designed by the legendary architect Ian Urquhart.