Sport is so often about teamwork and this is certainly the case when it comes to bringing brand new sports facilities to Gunnersbury Park. On Monday (12 February), Ealing Council recognised its partnership with Hounslow Council and the University of West London by signing a memorandum of understanding which represents an important step in the park’s ongoing restoration.
The ambitious £50million Gunnersbury regeneration project continues to progress, with new sports facilities and painstakingly restored heritage nearing fruition.
Creating the sports hub is expected to cost £13.9million and is being jointly funded by Ealing and Hounslow councils, with a contribution of £2million from the University of West London to enable its students to access the facilities.
It will mean local people and students will soon be able to take their pick from a huge range of activities to help them get moving and stay healthy and active.
The hub will boast a multi-use sports centre and gym, two external floodlit artificial grass pitches, new tennis courts, cricket and football pitches, providing year-round access to top quality indoor and outdoor facilities for residents and students.
Ealing Council leader Julian Bell said: “This memorandum of understanding signed with Hounslow Council and the University of West London underlines our continuing commitment to delivering the Gunnersbury sports project. Ultimately it is about securing first-class facilities for the benefit of communities across the borough.
“Gunnersbury Park is undergoing a hugely positive transformation which will see not only brand new sports facilities, but also wonderful historical buildings opening their doors soon. We are also delighted to welcome Lovebox and Citadel Festivals this summer which will further enhance the park’s excellent record of hosting high-profile events.”
Hounslow Council leader Steve Curran said: “We are delighted to sign this memorandum of understanding with the University of West London and Ealing Council. This is a very positive step towards ensuring that we provide a world class facility that all can enjoy and supports the council’s aim to promote active, healthier communities and enhance our wonderful green spaces for the enjoyment of all.”
Vice chancellor of the University of West London, Professor Peter John, said: “This new sports facility is an excellent example of the strong partnership that exists between the university and its boroughs. The memorandum of understanding is also a huge step forward and forms part of the anchoring strategy that is central to the university’s strategic ambitions.”
Last month, Eaing and Hounslow councils reached an agreement with Festival Republic to host the annual Lovebox and Citadel Festivals in Gunnersbury Park.
