The council have installed five new cricket pitches (NTPs) across the borough over the past year to meet growing demand...
This is thanks to £40,000 investment funded by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), KP Snacks and council funding.
The new pitches are located at Cassiobury Park, Callowland Recreation Ground, and King George V Playing Fields (KGV). These include four state-of-the-art synthetic pitches that are designed to be low-maintenance and weather-resistant, providing year-round access for casual play and community use.
To protect the surface, ‘spring stumps’ or portable stumps should be used on the wickets, rather than inserting wickets directly into the carpet. Users are also encouraged to use non-hard cricket balls, such as tennis balls or taped balls, in open spaces to ensure the safety of other park users.
Importantly, all four are non-bookable and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities can enjoy the game freely.
There is also a new grass wicket at King George V Playing Fields, which will be available by the end of the year and has been funded by the council. It requires six months to establish, and while it is fenced off for protection, the new non-turf wicket at KGV will be out of use during this period.
The initiative aligns with the ECB’s national strategy to make cricket more accessible and inclusive, particularly in urban areas and was funded through the ECB’s partnership with KP Snacks, who have invested in installing over 100 cricket pitches nationwide to get more families and communities active.
The council will continue to collaborate with Hertfordshire Cricket to develop grassroots programmes, including youth coaching and community cricket events, to encourage wider participation in the sport.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This investment demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every resident in our town can enjoy the best possible facilities in our beautiful parks. By providing free, high-quality cricket pitches, we’re opening opportunities for everyone to get involved, stay active, and connect through sport.”
Councillor Tim Williams, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services & Parks, added: “These new pitches are a fantastic addition to our local green spaces. They not only support physical activity but also foster community spirit. We’re excited to see families, friends, and aspiring cricketers making the most of these facilities throughout the year.”
Ben Bradley, Head of Commercial Partnerships at the England and Wales Cricket Board, said: “We’re delighted to support these improved facilities in Watford, which will provide more opportunities for local communities to get involved in cricket. High-quality, accessible places to play are vital to inspiring the next generation and ensuring the game is open to everyone.
“This project is part of our ongoing partnership with KP Snacks through the Everyone In programme, which is helping to transform community facilities and break down barriers to participation across the country. We hope these pitches will become a real hub for the community, encouraging more people – particularly those who may not have considered cricket before – to pick up a bat and ball and enjoy the game.”
Residents are encouraged to visit the new pitches and take part in upcoming cricket activities. Further details on community programmes will be announced in partnership with Hertfordshire Cricket in the coming months.
To find more KP Snacks Everyone In Pitches across the country, visit everyonein.co.uk/pitchfinder
