Plans announced for sports centre on playing fields (From Times Series)

Plans announced for sports centre on playing fields in East Finchley

9:50am Thursday 30th September 2010 in Top Stories By Kevin Bradford

A DERELICT football field in East Finchley could be converted into sports complex under new proposals by a group of sports enthusiasts.

The plans for a multiplex sports centre at Stanley Road playing fields were aired for the first time at a meeting of the East Finchley Village Residents Association.

The sports enthusiasts claim it will bring a much-needed boost to the area, which has been neglected for years, and offer indoor facilities for schools and residents.

Steven Selwood, a former professional cricketer turned coach, who has led on the early stages of the scheme, claims the plan has financial backers.

He said the announcement on Monday was the first stage of gaining public support for the development before full details are put forward to Barnet Council for approval.

Mr Selwood said: “It could be like something that doesn't exist in the UK.

“There are lots of provisions for outdoor sports, but not much for indoor sports.

“Barnet Council will not make any money out of it in the state it is. It will want to see some sort of return on the site, but we want to make sure Stanley Road is still used for sport.

“Anything we do is going to involve the residents. It is about creating something with a business in mind, but with residents on board every step of the way.”

The playing fields have become overgrown in recent years, with two buckled goal posts standing at either end and unworkable floodlights looming above.

A raised fence which borders the Northern Line has partly collapsed and the gating has rusted around the outside of the area.

Several community-backed sporting events have been held in the field over past two years to prove to council bosses that the space is a valuable resource that would be used by residents if properly maintained.

Some people fear the council is holding out to sell the land for housing, but Rob Robertson, from the Finchley Community Development Trust, believes the idea of a sports centre would be welcomed by people in East Finchley.

He said: “Our view is that it should be maintained as a sports venue.

“The initial reaction has been broadly favourable. I suspect the problem is not going to be the opinion of the residents but of the council.

“It could be first-class sports facility. It would also give an opportunity for schools to use and help address the problem of youths hanging around on the streets.”

A statement from the council said a detailed report on all the options for the future of the site had been completed and would be ready for councillors to consider by the end of next month.

It added: “After securing possession of the site, the council is maintaining and monitoring the land until a decision on its future is made.

“Any interested parties wishing to express an interest should contact the council with their suggestions.”