Skateboard England and Skateboard GB have restructured to form a single national governing body for skateboarding, under the name Skateboard GB.
Skateboard England was formed in 2015 and has supported the growth of grassroots skateboarding in England and Wales through various initiatives; while Skateboard GB, which was formed in 2017 has been key in supporting skaters for Olympic qualifying competitions.
The restructured organisation will have responsibility for supporting and growing grassroots skateboarding in England as well as leading the development of the Olympic programme for the whole of the UK.
Establishing one skateboarding governing body will have many benefits, including having a singular brand for driving a stronger, more consistent direction, avoiding duplication of governance, resources and staff to focus time and effort for the growth of the sport and a strong link with other GB sporting organisations.
Skateboard Scotland and Skateboard:NI will remain separate to support and grow skateboarding within their own countries, and it is anticipated that a new skateboarding governing body will be established in Wales. Skateboard GB will work closely with and support those governing bodies, who will continue to be represented on its Board of Directors.
Skateboarding participation has seen continued growth over the last fiveyears, with accelerated numbers of people starting (or re-starting) skateboarding in 2020 leading to the highest participation figures in 20 years. In particular there has been a significant growth in female skateboarding and those aged over 30 rekindling their love of the sport.