is a series of photos taken on the site of an abandoned, derelict pub on the South Circular, Dulwich, London.

The disused space was adopted by local teenagers during lockdown, as a way to: meet up, connect with peers, let off steam, and skateboard. It continues to thrive and is an inspirational example of how a marginalised section of society creates a community.

I see so much hope in these images: connections and friendships – sofas to relax on and chat with mates and a BBQ to make food together; respect and responsibility – a water bowl for dogs and using bins to keep the space the tidy; innovation and sustainability – the idea to take over the neglected car park and turn it into a safe space to skateboard shows initiative and by adding disused furniture shows resourcefulness; creativity and skateboard skills – graffiti artists are encouraged, and the construction of skate obstacles have attracted professional skaters from across the UK.

According to Tilly, in an article for the Dulwich Society Journal 217 (Summer 2023), the Grove community have managed to secure funding for skate obstacle builds and maintenance from individuals, local businesses and Skateboard GB. A community garden – in the old beer garden – operates alongside the skate community.