Maids thank hockey community for their support over campus application
Maidenhead Hockey Club has thanked members, players and supporters in the wider hockey community for the backing they’ve given the club’s joint planning application with Claires
Court School for a new campus and sports facilities.
The club is awaiting the decision of the planning inspectorate with great interest as it plans to consolidate all its training and match-day activities at the new Ridgeway side, should the project be approved.
The plans went to appeal on November 18 and a decision from the inspectorate is expected by the end of January. The development is set to include an all-weather hockey pitch, football pitches, grass rugby and football pitches, an athletics track, a multi-use games area (MUGA), tennis and netball courts and a cricket pitch. There is also provision for outdoor classroom space, landscaped social areas and an amphitheatre courtyard. The council rejected the proposals in August.
Maidenhead Hockey Club submitted statements from several of their younger players, as well as a letter of support from England Hockey.
In its letter England Hockey said: “Hockey has seen a significant increase since the Women’s gold medal at the Rio Olympics, which has stimulated significant growth amongst both adult and junior sections.
“Maidenhead HC has a key role in sustaining this momentum and is reflected in their desire to grow, however, there has been little increase or improvement in facility provision/access.
“Clubs are the backbone of our sport and we need to ensure they have the facilities to expand and grow alongside their membership. As part of the proposed development England Hockey would look to work alongside the club and school to develop a robust Community Use Agreement to maximise the opportunities for all to enjoy sport within the local community.”
Lindsey Lucas, chair of Maidenhead Hockey Club, said: “I am so proud of everyone at the club and beyond, who have taken the time to support us in this inquiry and to help put forward such a strong case. For us, the new facilities that the proposals would deliver would be invaluable and would really enhance all that we are able to offer our players – across all ages and abilities. We’d like to thank the Inspectorate for taking the time to listen to everything that we put forward and to everyone who has supported us.”
One of the young colts at the club added: “We really enjoy being part of MHC and have met and made some great friends who we’ll enjoy playing hockey with for years to come, especially if there is an even better place to train and play, with amazing facilities.”
Visit www.maidenheadhc.org.uk