The Change Foundation
The challenge
The Change Foundation were keen to invest in an indoor cricket net area that would further improve facilities at The Cricket Centre, the primary hub of activity for this charitable organisation.
The solution
To design and install a state-of-the-art, custom-built venue that fits comfortably within the highly maintained cricket ground and fittingly represents the exceptional work carried out by the charity.
Key facts
- 36m x 10m x 7.2m
- 2 net lanes at 30m +
- ECB approved surfacing
- High-spec lighting
Project overview
The London Community Cricket Foundation originated in 1981 and began by using cricket as a tool to promote community cohesion as well as support young people in Brixton following the riots.
Over the years it has grown significantly and evolved to offer broader multisport programmes for social change and now works with marginalised, vulnerable groups of people all over the world.
Cricket still sits at the heart of this organisation and The Cricket Centre in Surrey hosts their annual Street20 Premier League tournament as well as many other events bringing people together from diverse communities.
The venue, which was opened by Jamaican International cricket legend Chris Gayle, is ideal for all levels of play. At 30m +, we installed two lanes with bespoke quality lighting, which is essential for being able to see the ball travel at high speeds. It also includes ECB recommended surfacing, similar to that used at Lord’s Indoor School, which offers the optimum bounce for quick bowlers and excellent grip for spinners.
According to Treasurer Carol Driver, “the indoor nets have been transformational in allowing us to offer an all-year facility. Since opening the venue we have been able to launch several new projects including The Refugee Cricket Project, Girls Win, Walking Sport and Intergenerational Table Tennis.”
The foundation has also been able to generate an additional income by hiring the indoor nets out to local clubs and schools for their winter training.
