Barnes park could be transformed with new skatepark, café and pavilion
By Charlotte Lillywhite - Local Democracy Reporter 30th Jul 2026
A park in Barnes could be transformed with a new skatepark, café and pavilion doubling up as a refuge from future emergencies caused by climate change.
The proposed redevelopment of Vine Road Recreation Ground aims to provide improved facilities and accessibility for future visitors.
The plans would see a new pavilion built to provide a community hall, learning centre, exhibition space, climate refuge and emergency response base when needed. It would have modern toilets, changing facilities, management offices and a café.
A new wetland area would be introduced next to Beverley Brook, while the park's playground would be redesigned and a new woodland adventure area and skatepark would be built.
The plans also include a central lawn and adult outdoor gym with equipment including pull-up bars, parallel bars and resistance frames.
Wider paths would be installed, along with accessible surfaces for wheelchair users and pushchairs, bigger community growing areas and inclusive playground equipment.
Charity Barnes Common Ltd has been working on the proposals in partnership with Richmond Council since 2020, and the scheme has now been submitted for a decision.
Planning documents said outdated buildings at the park would be demolished for the new facilities, which would improve opportunities for recreation, education, volunteering and wellbeing.
The documents said: "The application seeks to renew and consolidate facilities across the recreation ground, responding to long-standing operational needs and extensive engagement with the local community and the council.
"The existing buildings are dispersed, inefficient and nearing end of life – they constrain accessibility, safeguarding and the delivery of outdoor education and community programmes."
They added: "Overall, the development provides modern, inclusive and efficient facilities that support the outdoor recreation, environmental learning, volunteering and community uses already taking place at Vine Road."
The council is accepting feedback on the application, which will be decided in due course.
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