Plans Submitted for New PlayZone on Clayponds Estate
Multi-use Games Area part funded by Football Foundation
The PlayZone is being presented as an upgrade on the existing facilities in the estate
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June 19, 2026
Clayponds Estate residents are being invited to comment on new plans to replace the existing multi-use games area with a modern PlayZone, as the proposal moves forward.
The scheme, submitted by MUGA-UK on behalf of the Football Foundation and the London Borough of Hounslow, sets out a full redevelopment of the current asphalt court beside Clayponds Community Centre. The new PlayZone would introduce colour-coated porous macadam surfacing, upgraded fencing, LED floodlighting, a spectator area, benches, bins and an electronic access system designed to balance open community use with bookable sessions for priority groups.
The Football Foundation’s PlayZone programme focuses on tackling inequalities in physical activity by investing in areas with the greatest need. According to the planning statement, the Clayponds site was selected following borough-wide engagement and further consultation with local residents and sports bodies. The programme prioritises lower socio-economic groups, women and girls, disabled people, those with long-term health conditions and ethnically diverse communities.
The proposed PlayZone would operate from 8am to 10pm daily. Access would remain free except during commercial bookings, and the electronic gate system would allow a mix of open sessions and bookable slots. The floodlights and new path lighting would only activate during booked periods, rather than remaining on throughout the evening.
Design details show a 30m x 20m fenced court with recessed goal areas, basketball hoops, and a 3.66m-wide macadam spectator zone along the northern edge. Fencing would be 3m high around the perimeter, rising to 4m behind the goals, finished in moss green to reduce visual impact. The surface would be tested to EN 15330-1 standards, and the drainage system would use porous materials to reduce runoff, with the site located in Flood Zone 1.
The planning statement argues that the new facility would “provide a high-quality sporting and activity space” and “tackle inequalities in participation in sport and activity in the area”, while minimising impact on neighbours through controlled lighting, appropriate fencing and sustainable drainage.
An example of a PlayZone at another location. Picture: Football Foundation
Construction is expected to begin in late 2026, with the new PlayZoneopening in 2027.
Residents who wish to view the plans or submit comments can do so by visiting the planning section of the Hounslow Council website and searching for application P/2026/1676.
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