Beckenham set for posh makeover

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The plans include a new all-weather hockey pitch, an indoor multi-use training centre, a health and fitness centre, improved permanent spectator seating, and a small conference facility

Kent have announced that outline planning permission has been granted by the London Borough of Bromley to improve facilities at the club’s Beckenham outground.

The plans include a new all-weather hockey pitch, an indoor multi-use training centre, a health and fitness centre, improved permanent spectator seating, and a small conference facility.

The funding for these facilities will be raised through enabling development. Kent expect that the facilities will provide the required revenue streams to create a viable future for the ground, and in turn ensure that professional cricket continues to be played in Beckenham.

Kent chief executive Jamie Clifford said: “I am delighted that Bromley Council have approved our scheme.

“We have been determined to secure a long-term base in the Greater London area for the county, and this decision brings that hope a step closer. The cricketing county of Kent covers a very big land area, and we have always been keen to take cricket to all parts of the county.

“Most importantly, I now look forward to establishing a thriving sporting centre of excellence, that will help us considerably in the development of talented young cricketers. I anticipate that this, coupled with our community programmes, will bring something very special and lasting to Bromley.”

The second phase of redevelopment at Kent's Canterbury home is a step closer after Canterbury City Council approved a £1.5m loan

Kent also confirmed that Canterbury City Council approved a £1.5million loan to aid the second phase of redevelopment at the St Lawrence Ground, Canterbury, at a meeting yesterday evening.

The first phase has been funded largely from the proceeds of sales of land for housing, and an initial loan from the council. Already, there has been an enhancement of conference facilities, dramatic improvements to player and spectator areas, and the installation of high-quality retractable floodlighting.

The current phase of works on a new club building, due to be completed in the spring, includes a Sainsbury’s Local convenience store, new club offices and three residential flats.

Clifford added: “Canterbury City Council has been tremendously supportive of the club in realising the vision for the St Lawrence Ground. I am delighted that we will now be able to conclude the current phase of the redevelopment programme.

"The support from the city council is helping us in our desire to create a long-term, financially stable future in Canterbury - with a ground everyone can be proud of.

“This news, coupled with the recent signing of a long-term deal with Sainsbury’s leaves the project in very good shape. The final piece of the jigsaw is the development of a 130-bedroom hotel, and discussions on this are progressing well too.”

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