Portsmouth’s First Indoor Skatepark to Skate into Town
A new undercover skatepark is set to open in Portsmouth, turning the former Sainsbury’s on Commercial Road into the city’s first ever indoor skate haven. Named Pitt Street – an Undercover Skatepark Project, the facility promises ramps, rails, roller discos, and social spaces under one roof.
Massive Site with Big Ambitions
The old supermarket, covering over 3.2 acres near the bottom of the M275, comes with a whopping 290-space car park. Access is easy from Andrew Bell Street to the south or Fitzherbert Street to the north, making it a prime spot for local skaters and visitors.
Portsmouth City Council owns the site after buying it when Sainsbury’s shut down in January 2021. Last year, they handed the skatepark team a temporary licence to operate. Now, with funding secured from Charles Dickens ward councillors, the project is full steam ahead for a spring launch.
Community-Driven and Ready to Roll
“We are so proud that our project has reached the point it has and we’re massively grateful for the support we have gained from our councillors,” said co-founder Jacob Skinner. “We’re very excited for the future of Pitt Street – an Undercover Skatepark Project.”
The plans include skate ramps, rails, ledges, plus areas for art groups and other sports activities like roller discos. Add in a café, retail shop, and plenty of space to hang out, and this becomes much more than just a skatepark—it’s a new community hub.
Charles Dickens ward councillor Cal Corkery praised the venture, saying:
“We have been really impressed by the vision for a new inclusive community facility right in the heart of Charles Dickens ward. It’s a pleasure to be able to help support the project through use of our ward community funds.”
Local Support Boosts Youth Opportunities
Strong community backing, including from campaigner Yinka Adeniran and Spotted Portsmouth, highlights the project’s importance. Yinka, a local resident, said:
“Living in the area I know how important it is for our young people to have things to do and places to go which keeps them off the streets. I’m looking forward to working with the Undercover Skatepark team to ensure this project succeeds and becomes a valuable community resource.”
The clock is ticking for the city’s skate fans. With lift-off planned for spring, Pitt Street promises to be Portsmouth’s coolest new hangout.
