Designers and managers of public spaces need to meet the needs of young people - including skateboarders - and not exclude them as destructive or antisocial, according to a new good practice guide launched this week.

The guide, launched by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) to mark CABE Space’s first birthday argues that ‘slack space’ - space that accommodates informal use by young people - is often the only place that young people can socialise with their friends and get fresh air and exercise.

Yet these activities are increasingly under threat. For instance, a £20 on-the-spot fine has been introduced if you are found skating anywhere in the Square Mile of the City of London.

Julia Thrift, Director of CABE Space said: “Young people are often seen as threatening or disorderly, particularly if they are skateboarding.”

“Managers of open space often go to great lengths to stop skaters adopting otherwise unloved spaces. What they don’t recognise is that skating is great for young people’s heath, independence and social skills, and skaters can help bring life and vitality to neglected parts of the city.”

“We recognise that skaters can be a nuisance if their activities conflict with the needs of other users, but a balance needs to be struck that meets the needs of all people. If informal activities continue to come under threat, problems such as childhood obesity can only increase.”

“Young people often feel the need to establish their right to use public space – if frustrated then this desire may turn destructive and lead to antisocial behaviour.”

One of sixteen case studies in the guide, published in partnership with CABE Education, is the undercroft of the Queen Elizabeth Hall on London’s South Bank. The area is perfect for skaters as it is undercover, smooth enough and sloping enough to develop the art of skating. The South Bank’s relationship with the skaters has evolved from one of hostility to cohabitation. This year, for the first time, they plan to tailor part of their artistic and education programmes to engage skateboarders directly.