Multi-use games area in King George V Playing Fields reopens

The area in King George V Playing Fields had essential maintenance work to keep the area safe and playable in all weathers - including the resurfacing and marking of three tennis courts, two basketball courts, one netball court as well as football and hockey goal areas.

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It first opened up in 2007 thanks to £250,000 funding from Barclays Space for Sports and has been used by a variety of sporting clubs and groups over the last 15 years.

This week Watford Borough Council and Veolia re-opened the area.

A look at the revamped multi-use games area

Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Sport and outdoor activity is really important to any community, so I’m delighted to see the pitch’s resurfacing work completed and ready for use again. 

“These works ensure that a range of sports are catered for, for years to come.

“With the work now completed, it will be good to see people of all ages, all backgrounds and all abilities using the multi-use games area again. It’s a place where people can come together, keep fit and form friendships.”

The revamped facility is part of the council’s ambition to provide good quality parks and improve the health and wellbeing of children and adults in Watford.

A look at the revamped area

Coert van Straaten, headteacher at the Holywell Primary School near to the park, said: “A shared space like this is more than a place to play football, basketball or whatever the sporting choice is.

“It’s a great starting place to learn about teamwork, sharing and the rules of a sport for our younger people.

“The revamped surface allows us to make the very best use of this precious outdoor sport and recreation resource, and support a wider range of exciting organised activities and sports in which our students can participate."