Plans have been submitted to Richmond Council for a major transformation of Vine Road Recreation Ground in Barnes, South West London. The proposals include a new skatepark, café, pavilion, and a climate refuge designed to serve as an emergency response base during future crises.
New Pavilion and Facilities
The centrepiece of the redevelopment is a new pavilion that will house a community hall, learning centre, exhibition space, and management offices. It will also include modern toilets, changing facilities, and a café. According to planning documents, the pavilion will double as a climate refuge and emergency response base when needed.
The existing outdated buildings at the park will be demolished to make way for the new facilities. The documents state: "The application seeks to renew and consolidate facilities across the recreation ground, responding to long-standing operational needs and extensive engagement with the local community and the council." They add: "The existing buildings are dispersed, inefficient and nearing end of life - they constrain accessibility, safeguarding and the delivery of outdoor education and community programmes."
Play Areas and Wetland
A new wetland area will be introduced next to Beverley Brook, while the existing playground will be redesigned. The plans also include a new woodland adventure area and a skatepark. A central lawn and an adult outdoor gym with equipment such as pull-up bars, parallel bars, and resistance frames are also proposed.
Accessibility improvements include wider paths with accessible surfaces for wheelchair users and pushchairs, larger community growing areas, and inclusive playground equipment. The project is a partnership between charity Barnes Common Ltd and Richmond Council, which has been developing the proposals since 2020.
Community and Environmental Benefits
Planning documents highlight that the development will improve opportunities for recreation, education, volunteering, and wellbeing. They state: "Overall, the development provides modern, inclusive and efficient facilities that support the outdoor recreation, environmental learning, volunteering and community uses already taking place at Vine Road."
The council is currently accepting feedback on the application, which will be decided in due course.
