Richmond Council has responded to Udney Park Community Fields Foundation regarding the uncertain future of Teddington's Udney Park playing fields.

Back in June, Jonathan Dun, a trustee of the Udney Park charity, submitted an open-letter to Paul Chadwick of Richmond Council requesting council intervention to force the fields' private owners, AHH Group ltd, into addressing the property's uncertain future.

Since Udney Park's bid for the fields last year was rejected, there has been no clear progress regarding the fields' future with increasing fear the private owners are biding their time until a more appealing commercial offer is put on the table, rather than the fields returning to public use for physical exercise and competitive sport.

Mr Dunn outlined in his initial letter, supported with signatures of over 50 local sports organisations and residents, the various ways the fields have become neglected during AHH's seven-year ownership as well as listing the ways in which the private company should be working to protect the community space.

Mr Chadwick responded on Wednesday (July 27th) indicating whether or not AHH has neglected the property and allowed its conditions to deteriorate, it is not something the council are able to take statutory or other action.

The Director of Environment and Community Services for Richmond went on to explain how Udney Park's pavilion status as a townscape merit, rather than a Listed building, means the Council is unable to compel AHH to observe and act on the pavilion's necessary restoration works.

Mr Chadwick in his response to Mr Dunn makes it clear the council will not consider a compulsory purchase order at this time due to the legalities above, and the fact he does not see current proceedings having 'reached a tipping point'.

He also states that discussions are ongoing with the Council's Planning Department with a view to negotiate an acceptable scheme for the land, which is likely to secure 'some degree of public benefit', and that this is the desirable way forward rather than considering compulsory action.

In a swift response from Mr Dunn on behalf of the Udney Park Foundation, the trustee of the charity urged for a meeting to be arranged with AHH, Richmond Council and Udney Park Foundation where a solution could be worked towards collectively, whilst expressing his disapproval at an alternative offer being entertained without any community engagement.

Mr Dunn also suggested local MP Munira Wilson should be in attendance who herself has raised the issue of Udney Park in parliament.

The Udney Park Community Foundation awaits a response regarding the prospect of a proposed meeting, and residents should keep an eye out for updates on the Foundation's website.