Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Location
- Development Details
- Funding
- What is Pickleball?
- Impact of Gatwick Airport
- Conclusion
A skatepark, gym, and pickleball court are being proposed for a significant new £3.9 million sports development located just two minutes from a major UK airport.
The expansive park may also feature children's play areas and cycling trails.
The proposed new park, as shown above, is situated on land already owned by the council.Credit: Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
Officials have stated that the site in Horley was selected for this substantial park due to the area's growing population.
A well-known commuter town, trains frequently depart from Horley, reaching the airport in just two minutes.
In a statement released on the Reigate and Banstead Borough Council’s website, officials indicated that Tanyard Meadows was identified as the most appropriate location for the new park after evaluating various sites.
The statement continued: “It is sufficiently large to host a variety of facilities; it will enhance services in the northern and eastern parts of the town; it is easily accessible, and the land is already owned by the Borough Council.”
Council planning member Kate Fairhurst noted that over the past 20 years, 2,600 new homes have been constructed in the area.
“The new park at Tanyard Meadows will significantly enhance outdoor play, fitness, and grassroots sports opportunities for Horley residents, addressing the current shortfall in the southern part of the borough,” she remarked.
She added that the authority would “engage” with the public as the plans develop.
The park is being financed through Section 106 developer contributions.
These contributions can include payments from developers to support infrastructure development.
Pickleball, which is played on a court the size of a badminton court, blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Gatwick is the UK’s second-busiest airport and, with a planned new runway, is expected to generate a substantial £275 million-a-year boost to tourism in Horley and the surrounding region.
The plans may result in an additional 60,000 flights annually, including various new routes.
The Northern Runway could potentially generate £275 million per year for the visitor economy if proposals for its regular use are approved, according to official estimates.
It may also accommodate an extra 1.6 million high-value tourists each year by 2038.
The plans aim to attract visitors who stay longer and spend more money, officials stated.
Horley is a popular commuter town (stock image)Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
What facilities will the new sports development include?
The new sports development is planned to include a skatepark, gym, pickleball court, children's play areas, and cycling trails.
How is the park being funded?
The park is being funded through Section 106 developer contributions, which include payments from developers to help provide infrastructure.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a sport played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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