An iconic football cage in Hackney, affectionately known as the 'San Siro' by local children, is set to close for up to 18 months as part of a major housing redevelopment. The Keith Miller sports pitch, located on the Regents Court Estate near Broadway Market in London Fields, has served as a vital community hub for decades.
A 'Safe Space' for Youth
Artist Tara Darby, who has documented the cage through her 'White Cage' photography project, emphasizes its importance. 'This is just a free cage, but it’s life-changing for kids to be able to have a space that’s not massively overseen, where they can just go and make loads of noise,' she said. 'Especially teenage boys, they’re so policed – where can you go and just make loads of noise without people telling you to be quiet or calling the police? It’s so important.'
Darby's own children grew up playing at the pitch, and she witnessed firsthand how it empowers young people. 'Some of the kids were sad when they found out it was going to be closed, but I don't think they truly understand where they're going to go,' she added.
Housing Development Plans
Hackney Council's New Homes Programme aims to deliver more than 400 new homes across 15 estates, focusing on underused garages and car parks. Three-quarters of these will be for social rent, with the remainder for private sale to fund the project. The closure of the football cage is part of redevelopment at Orwell Court and Welshpool Street.
Darby acknowledges the need for housing but calls for better integration of community spaces. 'I understand we need more social housing in Hackney. But there needs to be a conversation about factoring these spaces into any developments,' she said.
Reduced Size and Improvements
When the pitch reopens, it will be smaller – 515 square metres compared to the current 700 square metres. However, the council promises upgrades including seating, lockers, netting to keep balls inside, and a social area for young people. A council spokesperson stated: 'We are providing a brand new all-weather sports pitch as part of the proposals. This project is an integral part of our wider New Homes Programme.'
The council also noted that three public engagement events, a residents' steering group, and targeted sessions with young people were held to incorporate community feedback. Design modifications included sinking the pitch to mitigate noise and improving safety and visibility.
Temporary Alternatives
Efforts are underway to find a temporary local alternative, but Darby worries that even a short distance may deter some kids. The council said it will offer nearby facilities for official programmes but not for general public use.
Darby's 'White Cage' exhibition runs at Homerton Library from June 4 to June 14 as part of Hackney Art Week, highlighting the value of free public spaces. She concludes: 'This is a space for people to practice for their dreams. The kids call it different names – 'The Cage', 'Broadway', 'The San Siro'. It’s not just a pitch; it’s something bigger.'
