Proposal Statement
Oct. 2026
The former paddling pool in Clissold Park presents an opportunity to transform a disused and deteriorating facility into a valuable recreational asset for the local community. The proposal seeks to retain and adapt the existing concrete pool structure to accommodate two cricket practice nets, an outdoor gym and informal seating, creating an accessible, multi-use space that promotes physical activity, social interaction and community participation.
Background and Previous Consultation
Originally constructed in the 1930s, the paddling pool was closed in 2020 following concerns about its condition, safety and increasing maintenance requirements. Hackney Council subsequently developed a replacement water-play facility elsewhere in the park, leaving the original pool redundant.
A public consultation undertaken between March and May 2021 attracted over 1,100 participants and explored several possible futures for the former pool. Significantly, two of the four options presented by the Council proposed retaining and modifying the exiting concrete structure to accommodate outdoor gym equipment. The future of the site remained under discussion during 2023, with further consultation anticipated. The present proposal builds upon these earlier ideas, combining outdoor fitness provision with much-needed cricket practice facilities and informal public seating.
A Sustainable and Economical Approach
A principal advantage of the proposal is the retention and reuse of the existing concrete pool structure, rather than its wholesale demolition and replacement. This approach would significantly reduce the amount of construction waste generated and avoid the environmental impact associated with breaking out, transporting an disposing of substantial quantities of concrete.
Subject to a structural assessment, the existing base could be repaired and levelled through the application of a suitable screed, providing a stable substrate for a non-turf artificial grass cricket surface installed over an appropriate shockpad. This would minimise new construction, retain the embodied carbon already invested in the existing structure and potentially deliver substantial savings compared with proposals requiring demolition, excavation and reconstruction.
The cricket carpet would provide a durable, all-weather practice surface, while the outdoor gym and seating would ensure the space remains useful to a broad cross-section of park visitors, rather than being dedicated exclusively to organised sport.
Meeting a Local Sporting Need
There is a compelling case for improving access to cricket practice facilities in this part of North London. Previously, cricket nets were available in nearby Finsbury Park, but these deteriorated through inadequate maintenance, eventually becoming unusable before being removed to accommodate baseball facilities.
Consequently, local cricketers seeking established outdoor practice nets must now travel further afield, notably to Victoria Park or Hackney Marshes. Providing practice nets within Clissold Park would help address this gap, offering accessible opportunities for young people, recreational players, families and local cricket clubs.
Importantly, cricket is a sport that brings people together from a wide range of cultural and social backgrounds. A welcoming, publicly accessible practice facility would encourage participation, support youth development and strengthen community connections.
Accessibility and Inclusive Recreation
The existing ramped entrance to the former pool offers a further advantage. Rather than constructing entirely new access arrangements, the proposal could incorporate and, where necessary, improve this existing route to provide step-free access for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.
Subject to detailed accessibility design, the facility could accommodate disabled cricketers, including wheelchair users, alongside other players. This would support disability cricket and help ensure that the benefits of the proposed facilities are shared as widely as possible.
Long-Term Management and Community Involvement
The Clissold Park User Group has rightly highlighted the importance of considering ongoing maintenance and management costs when evaluating proposals for the site. This is particularly relevant given the circumstances that led to the original paddling pool's closure.
The proposed development would avoid the substantial operational requirements associated with water-based facilities, while its relatively straightforward construction and durable materials should help reduce long-term maintenance demands.
Furthermore, there is potential for a partnership with the local Stoke Newington Cricket Club, which could assist with stewardship, routine upkeep, fundraising and the organisation of community cricket activities. Any such arrangement would require agreement with the club and Hackney Council, but could provide a practical model for
maintaining the facilities over the longer term.
Conclusion
The proposal offers an opportunity to give the former paddling pool a productive new life without the environmental and financial costs of wholesale demolition. By retaining existing infrastructure and introducing complementary sporting, fitness and social facilities, it would create a welcoming community asset that is sustainable, inclusive and economically responsible.
Rather than removing an existing structure simply because its original use is no longer viable, the project demonstrates how thoughtful adaptation can respond to contemporary community needs while making efficient use of public resources.