Skaters and BMX bike fans denounce that the remodeling of Les Tres Ximeneies is expelling them from a square that is a global reference for these sports. The works underway, with the argument that this will put an end to nooks and crannies where it is very easy to hide, are putting an end to a series of elements that for decades delighted lovers of capers.
Skaters from all over the world come to this side of Paral·lel Avenue to record their promotional videos. Les Tres Ximeneies was always the alternative – and much more underground – version of the Plaza de los Àngels, that of the Macba. Once again these people feel that they have to pay for the incivility of other people. What happens, as the architect specialized in the construction of skateparks, Pol Martín, explains, is that the practitioners of these urban sports do not usually set up associations or appoint spokespersons.
“But an initiative by Change.org to ask that the reform of the plaza not forget the skaters gathered nearly 3,000 signatures in just 24 hours,” explains Martín. We understand that at a given moment they will demolish the great cube, even if it hurts, but was it also necessary to demolish its platform? People love to ride on this platform... And skaters are not the only ones forgotten in this reform. They are also ignoring cricket fans. We are talking about athletic people. Other people make the bottles.”
