Richmond Council is calling on residents and local organizations to share their views on possible changes at local parks.

The local authority is looking for feedback on the installation of new pétanque pistes at Kneller Gardens and the potential unlocking of 11 parks during night time hours.

Inclusive Sports Facilities at Kneller Gardens

Richmond Council, supported by the community group Friends of Kneller Gardens, plans to introduce Pétanque pistes at Kneller Gardens.

Pétanque, also known as 'boules' in France, is played on gravel surfaces and is accessible to all.

The proposed facilities, which will be free of charge, "aim to promote inclusivity".

Two pistes are to be constructed, along with a wheelchair-accessible pathway connecting them to the existing hardstanding near the café building, which is close to the toilet facilities.

Additionally, a new bench and instructional signage will be installed.

The café will offer free rental of boules with a refundable deposit to ensure widespread access to the game.

Residents are invited to provide feedback on this proposal via an online survey, available until Monday, 10 February 2025.

Unlocking 11 Parks at Night

Following a three-month trial last year involving 11 of the 13 parks usually locked at night, Richmond Council is considering opening these parks permanently.

"The trial was completed to assess the benefits of opening these sites and understand the possible impacts," the council said.

"Feedback on the trial included positive comments from respondents about increased opportunities to exercise, walk, improve access to green space, enhance physical and mental health, and improve commute/walking routes.

"Additionally, our Parks Patrol Contractor, who monitored the trial sites during evening and night shifts, reported that they did not observe any activities or incidents that required further action or support from the police or council during the trial."

"We are now looking to consult on opening each site individually."

Learn more about the initial parks unlocking trial and proposal and give us your feedback before Monday 24 February 2025 by filling out our online survey.

Parks included are:

• Alpha Road Open Space 
• Carlisle Park  (participated from 1 September 2024 – 27 October 2024 only)
• Castelnau Recreation Ground  
• Champions Wharf 
• Garrick's Lawn 
• Grimwood Road Recreation Ground 
• Grove Gardens  (participated from 1 September 2024 – 27 October 2024 only)
• North Sheen Recreation Ground  
• Kings Field 
• Vine Road Recreation Ground  
• Westerley Ware Recreation Ground