Bournebrook DIYis situated in Selly Oak, Birmingham, just a short distance from the train station. Bournebrook was originally a recreational green area that had been left unused for many years, leading to it becoming overrun with wild shrubs and litter.
Local skater and residentShaun Boylefelt motivated to make a change during the initial lockdown. Shaun began clearing away the vegetation and debris, and together with other skaters, created a small skateable ledge. The initiative expanded and Shaun was joined by numerous volunteers from the local skateboarding and residential community. These volunteers cleared the entire site to construct various concrete skatepark elements, re-dug verges, planted flowers and small trees, drawing on the expertise of a diverse group of users and residents. Birmingham City Council initially had concerns about the creation of the skatepark, but the volunteer team was supported by seasoned skatepark construction professionals. A skatepark project of this nature and magnitude would typically cost over £150,000 if built by a construction company, yet this project was completed for just under £7,000, with much of the funding sourced through crowdfunding, supplemented by additional support from Skateboard GB and endorsed by Habito, Selco Building Supplies, and Vans. In September 2021, Bournbrook was recognised as the first-ever DIY park in the UK to achieve official skatepark status and was formally opened to the public.
Bournbrook DIY has all you need for skateboarding, whether you're just starting out or have been skating for 20 to 30 years. The skatepark includes flat banks, ledges, some quarters, a pyramid box, and some flat ground. Bournbrook DIY also offers free skateboarding coaching sessions. It's ideal for beginners, novices, and almost all ages and skill levels who wish to pick up a skateboard and enjoy learning something new.
Bournbrook DIY is a community project entirely built by volunteers and skaters, and there's also a community garden adjacent to the skatepark. Skaters often donate their old decks to the area, making them freely available for anyone interested. The communal space itself is creatively built using reclaimed pallets and discarded skateboards.