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Overview

There was lots of feedback about the limited variety of sports facilities available in Shinfield. The sports facilities that residents would like to see most include basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, dance, tennis and football. There was a strong desire for access to free tennis courts, more all-weather surfaces, increased floodlighting for pitches, an indoor gym facility and more facilities suited for older children. 

It was clear that there is a lack of open space for non-organised sport. Suggestions to improve this included a running track, an outdoor gym and a casual kickabout space.

Greater understanding was also requested about an overall strategy for sport in Shinfield and how facilities are funded, managed, access to the local community and timescales for development. 

Discussion

How can the variety of sports facilities and space for non-organised sport be improved in Shinfield? 

Improved collaboration between landowners, Wokingham Borough Council, Shinfield Parish Council and the local community will help to ensure that the sports facilities developed meet the needs and interests of Shinfield. The most recent consultation is a positive example of improved collaboration between the University, Shinfield Parish Council and the community. The feedback has provided a better understanding of demand for different types of sports facilities which will be factored into future development. 

As part of the plans for Millworth Lane Recreation Ground, Shinfield Parish Council are continuing to explore options for the development of new sports facilities that increase variety. These include a running track, traverse climbing wall, fitness training, basketball and netball. The Council are also looking at padel tennis and table tennis tables. Any development at Millworth Lane will see a mix of free to use and pay as you go options, increasing access to the facilities for local schools.

The University and Shinfield Parish Council will continue to explore how best to develop current and future plans, taking on board the feedback received to date. However, this is dependent on the funding available and an agreed understanding of how these facilities will be managed.

Is there a strategy for the development of sport in Shinfield?

To improve the joined up development of future sports facilities in Shinfield, the University is working with Shinfield Parish Council and Wokingham Borough Council to help draft a strategy. The strategy focuses on the whole of Shinfield, which is why both councils will drive development of and own the strategy.

Next steps

The proposals do not currently provide an opportunity to develop a dedicated indoor gym facility in Shinfield. We are keen to explore how the pavilions can be utilised and potential future opportunities to develop an indoor facility. We will shortly be reaching out to those that indicated an interest in this area so we can meet and discuss in further detail. If you would like to join this discussion and haven’t previously indicated an interest, please email community@reading.ac.uk. 

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