An exclusive West London private members’ club has been given the go-ahead to knock down and replace its ageing cricket pavilion. The Hurlingham Club in Fulham, which reportedly counts the Princess of Wales among its members, applied earlier this year to demolish the structure.
Planning Approval Granted
The existing pavilion was erected more than 30 years ago as a temporary building, with planning documents stating it had “far exceeded its expected and recommended lifespan”. The new pavilion is to provide level access to the clubrooms, servery, accessible and umpires changing room, home and away changing rooms, toilets and services.
In the cricket off-season it will be able to be used for other activities including croquet, plus groups such as the Young Hurlingham and Hartbeeps. According to the application the current pavilion consists of two modular buildings with no changing rooms for officials, toilets for spectators, and limited access to less mobile users.
Council Decision
Hammersmith and Fulham Council’s planning portal notes that a decision was made by officers on June 4, when approval was given. In their report officers wrote the proposal would improve opportunities for outdoor recreation, biodiversity and reduce water runoff. It is also considered to be of “a good quality of design”, which would also preserve the setting of the nearby listed buildings.
The Hurlingham Club was approached for comment. The club, which is situated in 42 acres of landscaped grounds by the River Thames, was opened in 1869. It has offered sports including croquet and tennis and boasts a stately Georgian Clubhouse. It is also considered the birthplace of polo. The primary building, the Grade II*-listed Hurlingham House, offers amenities from restaurants and offices to an indoor pool.
The club is known for its exclusive nature and has a closed membership list, which is reviewed just once a year.
