Pledge to bring Hyndburn playing field back into use

Accrington’s King George V Playing Fields will be back in use by September next year.

The green sports space is currently being upgraded to tackle drainage problems.

In January 2023 controversial plans by Hyndburn Council to grant a 100-year lease for the fields in Royds Avenue on the Hollins Estate to Accrington Stanley FC to create its first-ever training ground were abandoned over the issues with the playing surface.

At Thursday night’s full Hyndburn Council meeting Conservative former environment boss and St Andrews ward councillor Steven Smithson asked current deputy leader Cllr Melissa Fisher: “Is there an update on the King George V Playing Fields and when it will be brought back into use?”

In response she read a statement from authority’s parks boss Cllr Kimberly Whitehead: “I would like to thank Councillor Smithson for asking for an update and his renewed interest in King Georges Playing Field, which I’m sure has nothing to do with the upcoming Baxenden by-election.

“I am sure that he will recall what poor condition the field’s drainage is in and that the field is currently not fit for purpose for sport and recreational use.

“I also know that members of the local community are keen to know the future plans for the field.

“Significant investment is needed before the field can be used again.

“I can confirm that it is the Labour Group’s aim to bring the field and facilities back into use for sport, and as soon as realistically possible.

“I am pleased to confirm that we are in the process of discussions with several interested parties including a preferred party.

“The meeting will understand that I am not able to mention names due to commercial sensitivities.

“However, we will communicate our firm plans once arrangements are finalised.

“With regards to timescale, subject to ongoing discussions, we are working on a realistic 18 month plan for installing new drainage and allowing a new playing surface to establish.

“Our aim is therefore to bring the field back into use by September 2026.

“If the previous portfolio holder, Cllr Smithson, hadn’t sat on his hands with progressing King George’s then we would be much further along with progress.

“I have made more progress in the months since taking this role to bring people around the table and progressing discussions we are finally getting somewhere.”