Exeter charity launches consultation on green space
The public's views are being sought on the King George V playing fields.
There's a chance to help shape plans to transform 40 acres of green space in Exeter
The city football club's Community Trust are behind the plans for the King George the fifth Playing Fields on Topsham Road. They currently run outreach work across Devon and parts of Somerset.
The charity is working with Exeter City Council to explore options for the 40-acre site's future. A public consultation has been launched by the trust to ensure the views of the public are listened to as part of the planning process.
The playing fields were one of hundreds across the UK established after King George V's death in 1936 to ‘promote and assist in the establishment of playing fields for the use and enjoyment of the people’.
The site is currently home to several local sports clubs, including Central FC, Exeter City Girls' Junior Premier League teams, and the Exeter Spitfires Baseball Club. The grounds feature sports fields, an accessible children's playground, and walking paths.
The KGV project aims to enhance and expand the existing facilities. The planned additions include a 3G sports pitch, new play zones and a transformed health and wellbeing hub in the renovated building on the site. The charity says these improvements are 'designed to provide modern, accessible amenities while preserving the natural landscape and the field’s historic character'.
Jamie Vittles, chief executive of Exeter City Community Trust, said: “This much-treasured piece of land has been enjoyed by generations for almost 90 years. We are pleased to be working in partnership with Exeter City Council to explore the opportunities to revitalise this area, making it accessible to all and a valuable natural resource for generations to come.”
“Exeter City Community Trust is committed to honouring the ethos of KGV Playing Fields as a vital space for active, healthy lifestyles across generations. Through consultation we will ensure the KGV project is a true community effort, reflecting the needs and aspirations of those who use and enjoy this space. We are asking everyone to have their say in shaping the project, whether it's through sharing ideas for new community programmes, the activities they most enjoy, or discussing how to best preserve and enhance the natural environment."
“Our community’s input is invaluable in helping us create opportunities that serve all ages and interests, while staying true to the spirit of KGV and Fields in Trust.”
The deadline for this consultation phase is January 6, 2025. Representatives from the trust will be visiting the site and holding a number of activities over the next few weeks to gather views from the public on the plans. You can complete the survey via the KGV Consultation website: https://www.kgvexeter.com/