‘Come down for a kickabout’: Two football pitches opened to public

Two football pitches have been opened to the public after young residents said they felt excluded from physical activity.

Football fans in north Kensington will be able to enjoy a free kickabout after the council teamed up with Westway Sports and Fitness Centre in Crowthorne Road to open pitches 11 and 12 to the community whenever they are not booked.

Ian Ling, contract manager of Westway Sports and Fitness Centre, said: “It will be perfect for anyone not wanting a proper match or game and just get active. 

“Making it ideal for families to come down for a kickabout and run around, the older community to stretch their legs and for young adults to burn off some steam all without any financial implications.”

The council funded the new scheme after they received feedback from young people who said they felt “shut out” from physical activity through lack of access or financial constraints.

Councillor Emma Will, Kensington and Chelsea’s lead member for leisure, said: “We are committed to making it as easy as possible for our residents to enjoy an active lifestyle and by funding this initiative we hope to remove some of the barriers to participation in the beautiful game.

“I hope that footballers of all ages take advantage of a free kickabout with their friends on these fabulous pitches at Westway Sports and Fitness Centre.”

Bookings for pitches 11 and 12 will still be available for teams and groups wanting to play matches, with the pitches available for walk-ins at all other times. 

A full timetable will be added to the noticeboard outside of the pitches so it is clear when the pitch will be free to use.

Pictured top: Cllr Emma Will, football pitches at Westway Sports and Fitness Centre (Picture: Kensington and Chelsea council)