Archaeologists Prepare Excavation of Scotland’s First Skatepark in Glasgow

Archaeologists from the University of Glasgow are excavating the site of Kelvin Wheelies, Scotland's first skatepark, located in Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow. Opened in 1978, the park featured pioneering facilities such as bowls, a slalom run, and a half-pipe, and hosted the nation's first national skateboarding competition before its closure and burial by 1983 due to maintenance and safety concerns. The excavation, taking place from August 25 to 29, aims to preserve the skatepark's legacy as a significant part of Glasgow's modern sporting heritage, combining physical survey work with the collection of memories, photographs, and videos from former users and the public. The project is supported by a grant from the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and includes partnerships to engage marginalized communities in the research. Organizers encourage the public to share their experiences and visit the dig site to help ensure the cultural significance of Kelvin Wheelies is recorded and remembered. Dr. Kenny Brophy, leading the project, emphasized the importance of preventing the skatepark from being forgotten and lost to history.