Shoppers at Derbion were treated to an unexpected spectacle last weekend as over 150 skateboarders descended on the centre to celebrate the opening of a 12ft indoor vert ramp — the first skate facility of its kind to open inside a UK shopping centre.
The ramp has been unveiled by community sports charity Flo Skatepark, which marked the occasion with a high‑energy skate jam featuring amateur and professional skaters from across the East Midlands and beyond, including riders linked to Skateboard GB.
The action‑packed event saw skaters battle it out in a “bowl jam”, testing the brand‑new bowl for the very first time, while graffiti artists created live artwork on the walls. Sponsors Subway also brought games and activities to keep the crowds entertained throughout the day.
Flo Skatepark officially opened its doors at Derbion on Wednesday, April 8, following a major transformation of the former Eagle Market space into a 20,828 sq ft indoor skate facility.
The venue is operated by Flo Charitable Trust and has been made possible thanks to investment from Derbion and Derby City Council, alongside support from organisations including Sport England and Skateboard GB.
Designed for all ages and abilities, the new skatepark offers lessons in multiple wheeled sports, as well as regular community events and meet‑ups aimed at inspiring the next generation of skaters.
The opening also marks a major milestone in Derbion’s evolution into a leisure destination, following the arrival of indoor padel venue Social Sports Society and the completion of the centre’s Eastern Gateway development, which introduced a revamped entrance and public boulevard.
Beth McDonald, Managing Director of Derbion, said: “It was fantastic to see so many skaters of all ages come together to celebrate the opening of Flo’s world‑class vert ramp. It was a real full‑circle moment after such a huge transformation of the space.”
She added that Derbion is now the only shopping centre in the UK offering such a unique combination of sports and leisure experiences.
Mark Deans, Chairman of Flo Charitable Trust, said the new ramp was “the cherry on top” of an already ambitious project.
“This brings a world‑class skateboarding facility to Derby and the wider East Midlands — and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our partners, volunteers and the local community.”
Flo Skatepark is now open to the public, with lessons, sessions and events available to book online.
👉 Find out more at www.floskatepark.org
