The Friends of Coney Hall Park, in the London Borough of Bromley are still fundraising for ‘Play for All’, our biggest and most ambitious project. We need lots of support, so please help us. We have already raised over £63,000 but need more towards Phase Two.

In May 2024 we completed Phase One, the re-development of the two dilapidated tennis courts to create a fun ‘learn to ride’ circuit for young children with three concrete table tennis tables alongside. The removal of two fences, laying of a new path and planting over twenty trees has already enhanced the visual appearance of this area and in time the trees will provide a new habitat for wildlife.

The response to this area has been phenomenal, with so many positive comments from local families. It has been wonderful to see children of all ages, teenagers and adults all playing in one area. There really is something for everyone, even if it is just sitting on a bench and watching the fun! A few comments have been made lamenting the loss of the temporary football goals that were installed unofficially, but don't worry Phase Two of our Play for All project will address that, so please give generously.

We hope to start PHASE TWO later in 2024, but desperately need more funds. This involves extending an unused area of hard standing and building a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) where youngsters can play football or basketball. A seating area will provide a safe place for them to sit and chat with friends, or for parents whilst watching younger children play. This facility, together with the table tennis tables installed in May 2024 will ensure our park caters for all ages, including teenagers and young adults. We really need your support now, to get this happening soon!

NEED & EVIDENCE - There are insufficient facilities for young people, with little to promote informal play /sports. Increasing anti-social behaviour in the park: drug use, vandalism and graffiti is reported to Bromley / police. The need for better facilities is evidenced by F.O.C.H.P consultation. Our survey of 142 people showed 94.3% were in favour of building a MUGA (5% didn’t mind & 0.7% against.) Further consultation showed overwhelming support for the other activities. Recently local parents installed basketball and football goals on disused tennis courts. This was very popular and showed local demand. It was used by all ages, but caused noise disturbance and safety concerns for some. Our proposal meets demand, with noisier activities located away from housing. In December 2022, our online survey had nearly 400 responses, showing overwhelming support for our project.

BENEFIT - This will increase physical activity, provide social interaction, promoting mental health and wellbeing. It will enhance links between the F.O.C.H.P. and local youngsters, potentially reducing antisocial behaviour. Two dilapidated areas will be significantly improved, with residents of all ages helping to enhance biodiversity in the natural environment.

PARTNERS AND TIMESCALE - F.O.C.H.P. will work: with Idverde, Bromley Council and several organisations including the Resident's Association, EACH, Nash College, St John's Church, local schools and guide / scout groups. Additional grant funding will be sought from Idverde approved funders. The anticipated timescale is within the next financial year.

Please support our 'play for all' project in any way you can, so that we all benefit from this wonderful initiative! If you don't want to make a cash donation but would rather support us in some other way, please email coneyhallfophotmail.com.

Together, we can make a real difference!