Exciting Plans for New Sports Hub Unveiled!

Speculation is rising about the future of much-loved Gray's Fruit Farm in Heathlands after farmer Peter Gray announced the farm's closure earlier this month. The land was sold to Wokingham Borough Council in 2014.

It can now be revealed Wokingham Without Parish Council and Wokingham Borough Council are planning a large outdoor sports hub on the site by the new shortcut to the A329M/M4 that opened three weeks ago.

Plans have been in the pipeline since 2014 and leaders are weighing two visions for a facility expected to open in 2028. A planning application is due this autumn and, if approved, construction could start in spring 2027. The politician leading the project is a passionate football supporter and a lifelong West Ham fan.

Senior councillor, and sports fanatic Mark Ashwell said: "We're planning on funding the project with no debt whatsoever.

"To be part of shaping this, after 50 years supporting the development of sport in Wokingham is an absolute privilege.

"I'm determined to help to make a great borough-wide facility in wonderful Wokingham Without."

There are still big questions, especially how people will access the hub. Heathlands Road is narrow and winding, and councillors fear queues and accidents after popular events.

The proposed hub would expand sports provision with a mix of grass and artificial pitches, a pavilion built to Sport England standards, a circular activity track and wide landscaping. Grass pitches are expected to be ready for the start of the 2028 season.

Funding would mainly come from developer contributions linked to housing growth, with possible extra backing from groups such as the Football Foundation. Councillors are also considering a more commercial option.

The enhanced plan would nearly double the pavilion size and include an 80-station gym, studio space, soft play and a flexible events venue to help generate income for wider council services.

Both options include a new car park and walking and cycling links to nearby housing. The council is also exploring a second phase on adjacent land that could become a larger "sports village" only if it clearly boosts community health and participation.

Current tenants Peter and Elizabeth Gray have announced this as their last season and hope to make it their best. With funding routes under scrutiny, the coming months will be critical for what could become one of Wokingham's biggest new community assets.

Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter