Sports Makeover at Hammersmith Park


New sports complex and upgrade for football pitch

Sports facilities in Hammersmith Park on South Africa Road at to get a much needed makeover.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council says it has agreed to refurbish the park's decrepit 11-a-side football pitch and build a larger sports complex next door.

The council adds that plans are still being drawn up, but the complex could include various sized football pitches, a multi-use games area, a pavilion, with some free use for the local community.

The 11-a-side pitch, which is in desperate need of repair, is the only available community pitch in the Shepherds Bush and White City area and the council says it is responding to residents who have asked for improvements to be made.

John Gordon-Smith, Chairman of Friends of Hammersmith Park, says: "It is good news that renovations to the football area in Hammersmith Park are nearer realisation,and the Friends Group welcome working with the council to protect some use for the local community."

Cllr Greg Smith says: " We are delighted that Hammersmith Park will soon have first class sports pitches. We are committed to providing excellent sporting facilities for all residents and are sure that local people will be delighted with the new complex."

Hammersmith Park, close to Queens Park Rangers Football Club has undergone a radical transformation recently. The park’s historic Japanese Garden has been refurbished with new Japanese-themed natural and adventurous play installed to provide a continuous play trail across the whole site.

A climbing forest has also been created and three large spectacular play mountains also have been built. The council has built a hedge maze that is proving to be hugely popular with children. The maze was the number one suggestion when the council asked youngsters what they would like to see in the park.

February 9, 2011