The County Ground, Beckenham

Kent County Cricket Club has today unveiled exciting plans for the future development of the County Ground at Beckenham.

The Club has operated the Beckenham Ground since 2002 and it has been the scene of many memorable matches. However, over this period the Club has suffered significant operating losses in the running of the ground. This is not a sustainable situation and, therefore, the need for new revenue-generating facilities is seen as vital.

A planning application is to be submitted jointly with Leander Sports & Leisure (the land owner) and will include plans for a new all weather hockey pitch; an indoor multi-use training centre; a health and fitness centre; improved permanent spectator seating and a small conference facility. The funding for these facilities will be raised through enabling development.

The Club expect that the proposed new facilities will provide the required revenue streams to create a viable future for the ground, and in turn ensure that professional cricket continues to be played in Beckenham. If the planning application, which will be submitted shortly, does not receive approval from the London Borough of Bromley the Kent operation of the County Ground at Beckenham will cease.

Chief Executive Officer of Kent County Cricket Club, Jamie Clifford, commented: “It is a shame that the Club has to consider the prospect of moving away from the ground at Beckenham. However, I believe that the re-development plans offer a future that is not only financially viable, but also secure fantastic facilities for the Bromley area. The plan we are submitting will safeguard the long term future of Kent Cricket at Beckenham and has met with widespread approval in our initial consultation.”