Now that the bowling club no longer use the bowling greens adjacent to the rose garden, the astro-pitch could be enlarged to cover the existing playground while the playground could be relocated to the current bowling greens.
Using the latest 4G surface, this new enlarged pitch will be much safer for players and also allow the rugby club to use the area for training rather than the very wet area at the end of the park that gets fully waterlogged for much of the winter.
Given the use of the pitch throughout the year, proper lighting should be provided to be used up to a suitable hour each day to allow for matches and training after school and work.
The provision of such a facility will help the Council's drive to net zero as the local football club currently have hundreds of children driving to Chiswick as their home ground each week.
Funding assistance from the FA and other parties to build such a facility are available and can be investigated in coordination with local sports clubs and schools.
This petition has been formed to evidence the large amount of support for such a scheme from the residents of LBHF and to call upon the Council to work with all interested stakeholders to build a leading facility for the benefit of the community of the borough.
On reaching 100 signatures the relevant Cabinet Member will be made aware of the matter.
This ePetition ran from 18/06/2024 to 18/09/2024 and has now finished.
145 people signed this ePetition.
Dear Petitioners,
Thank you for your petition concerning the improvement and enlargement of the astro-turf pitch in Hurlingham Park. We appreciate your engagement and the detailed points you have raised regarding the current condition and the demand for enhanced sports facilities in the borough.
We acknowledge that the existing pitch is over ten years old and in need of significant refurbishment. The surface and fencing are indeed in a state of disrepair, and we understand the importance of this facility to local schools, sports clubs, and the wider community. The installation of a new, larger artificial grass pitch with a 3G surface and permanent floodlights would undoubtedly provide substantial benefits, allowing for extended use during the winter months and accommodating more training sessions and competitive matches.
However, we must consider our current resource constraints and ongoing projects. At this time, our priority is the upgrade and refurbishment of the Linford Christie Stadium, including its athletics track and artificial grass pitches. This major project requires significant investment and focus.
Hurlingham Park presents a complex scenario with multiple competing demands. We are currently reviewing the trial relocation of the bowlers to Bishop’s Park, and this review will be concluded in the coming weeks. Should the bowling green become vacant, we will initiate a public consultation to determine the future use of this space and the wider park area. Additionally, there is interest in introducing Padel courts to the park, which must also be considered.
Any potential expansion of the artificial grass pitch (AGP) will impact the existing playground, necessitating its relocation. Furthermore, the installation of floodlights to meet increased usage demands will present additional planning challenges.
We recognise the need for more artificial grass pitches within the borough and are actively working on our first playing pitch strategy for the borough with Sport England. This strategy will guide future provision and help us address the growing demand for all-weather sports facilities.
We are committed to carrying out a comprehensive consultation on the potential improvements and changes to Hurlingham Park in the coming months. Your input will be invaluable in shaping the future of this important community asset.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support