Ivybridge Estate Sports Zone Completed

Dilapidated play area now a well-equipped facility

Ivybridge estate sports zone

A play area on the Ivybridge Estate in Isleworth which had been allowed to fall into disrepair has been transformed into a new sports zone.

Groundwork, a federation of charities have worked with the council to provide a well-equipped facility for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy.

The £290,000 revamp, which was secured through Sport England, was created following input from residents who live on the estate. It features multi-use pitches, running track, swings and climbing features, a street snooker space, table tennis table and newly landscaped seating area.

Cllr Lily Bath, Cabinet Member for Housing and Social Inclusion and Deputy Leader of the Council, went down to officially open the new play zone. She met a group of school children from Ivybridge Primary School who are looking forward to enjoying the new space.

Cllr Bath said, “The transformation of the play area at the Ivybridge Estate is amazing. The new sports zone will make such a difference to the Ivybridge community, not just for the kids but for their parents too, as it will give them a place to interact with other adults while their children are playing and learning. We hope this new facility will build on the community spirit in the area and encourage more people to get involved in sports activities.”

Caroline McKay, Head Teacher at Ivybridge Primary School added, "The new play areas look fantastic, they are bright and cheerful and will provide spaces for children of all ages to enjoy activity outside and to socialise with their friends."

A programme of sports activities will be delivered by experienced coaches from Brentford Football Club Trust, which will encourage people of all ages be more active and engage with their community.

The Streets Sports programme will provide an opportunity for young people to have the chance to volunteer with the professional coaches.

Graham Goodden, Communities Engagement Manager at Brentford Football Club Community Sports Trust, added, “The new facility at Ivybridge will enable the Trust to continue delivering free youth engagement activities for young people from Ivybridge and surrounding areas through our Street Sports programme. Improved facilities in the borough, will enable the Trust to not only engage with more young people in sports but also provide educational workshops, qualifications and volunteering and employment opportunities.”

October 9, 2020