I am writing to express my strong support for the planning application to introduce new community and recreational facilities at the King George V (KGV) playing fields in Effingham.
This project presents aims to deliver inclusive, accessible, and much-needed amenities that will significantly enhance the health, well-being, and social cohesion of our community.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Effingham currently lacks accessible and inclusive play and recreation areas. The proposed nature trail and play facilities—designed to accommodate wheelchairs and prams—represent a considerable step forward in ensuring that all members of our community, regardless of physical ability or age, can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably.
Community Wellbeing and Informal Recreation
While formal sport is relatively well-supported in our area, informal fitness and wellness opportunities are limited. The addition of free-to-use play spaces, fitness trails, and tranquillity gardens will offer valuable outlets for physical activity, emotional wellbeing, and quiet reflection—open to everyone and free at the point of use.
Play Provision for Children
Effingham lacks a council-supported play area. The nearest facility supported by Guildford Borough Council is a six-mile round trip away and not easily accessible via public transport. This application provides a critical chance to rectify that by supporting local play provision, a responsibility the Council shares in ensuring children’s rights to recreation and development.
Teen and Youth Support
This proposal will provide safe, social spaces for young people to gather, relax, and engage in healthy outdoor activity. With specific consideration for girls and young women, the woodland walk and social seating areas create an environment that promotes safety, confidence, and well-being among this age group.
Strengthening Community Bonds
With new community catering facilities, fitness and walking trails, and woodland walks, KGV will become a social hub where residents of all ages can meet, chat, and enjoy the natural environment together, bringing people closer and fostering a stronger sense of community.
Serving Our Ageing Population
Effingham has a growing number of older residents. Local groups such as the U3A and WI are increasingly in need of social and low-impact sport and social facilities. The proposed all-weather space will support popular activities like pickleball, walking football, and short tennis, enabling older adults to stay active, social, and engaged. The Woodland trail will provide opportunities for safe and inclusive access to wheelchair and mobility-friendly trails to socialise and enjoy the outdoors.
Supporting Local Schools
The Howard Partnership Trust has already voiced its support for this application, recognising the value of the proposed nature trail and all-weather facilities in supplementing the school’s limited recreation space. These improvements will directly benefit local pupils and enhance their school experience, and provide opportunities for recreation outside formal school hours.
In conclusion, this application is an outstanding opportunity to transform the KGV into a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible community space for all. It promotes promotes and supports physical and mental health, and responds to the evolving needs of our village.
I urge the Council to support this application and help ensure Effingham’s future as a thriving, inclusive, and connected community.
