The Udney Park Foundation has held progressive talks with the new owners of the Teddington playing fields regarding the urgent work needed on the neglected site.

Jonathan Dunn on behalf of the foundation met with representatives of Mr Wu last Friday (November 11), owner of Leisure Focus, a Chinese-led investment fund based in the British Virgin Islands which took over ownership of Udney Park in August from AHH ltd.

Mr Dunn discussed with Mr Wu's representatives on ways recent vandalism of the site and roof repairs could be addressed, with the structure of the pavilion suffering from severe water damage in recent months.

Despite the severity of Udney Park's deterioration having come during AHH's disastrous seven-year ownership, the site continues to suffer from neglect and it is clear work needs to begin urgently.

However, Mr Dunn has remained positive and explained Teddington RFC, who are currently leasing a third of the site, are maintaining the boundaries and cutting the grass which has led to gradual improvements.

The Udney Park Foundation trustee also stressed the new owners have no intention of building on the historic sporting fields, something which was consistently threatened by AHH.

He said: "Mr Wu's representatives very much accommodate the aims of the Foundation and his advisers are also very clear on the planning restrictions that apply to this site, and continue to state that they have absolutely no intention to build houses.

"I can understand the anger surrounding Udney Park but at least the new owner of this land is engaging positively with the Foundation – which is a radical improvement after seven years of total disconnect between the community and Quantum."

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In a debate in Westminster Hall earlier this month, local MP Munira Wilson stressed the importance of maintaining the sufficient standards of playing fields within the borough to ensure it is able to accommodate for grassroots sports, and commended the Udney Park Foundation on its continued fight to ensure the playing fields future is protected for years to come.

To stay up to date with the Udney Park Foundation's work alongside the new playing field owners, keep a close eye on their site HERE