Major Redevelopment of King George V Playing Fields Gets Green Light
Walsall Council's planning committee has unanimously approved transformative plans for King George V Playing Fields in Bloxwich, marking a significant investment in local recreational facilities. The decision, made on February 12, 2026, will see the park undergo a comprehensive overhaul funded primarily by Towns Deal government money.
New Features and Enhancements
The approved redevelopment includes a wide array of new amenities designed to modernize the park and increase its usability for the community. Key elements of the project are:
- A new pavilion to replace the existing structure
- A state-of-the-art 3G football pitch with flood lighting
- A multiuse games area for various sports activities
- A brand-new play area for children
- An outdoor gym facility for fitness enthusiasts
These improvements aim to create a more versatile and attractive public space, addressing community needs while boosting local engagement.
Hockey Club's Objections Take Center Stage
Discussions during the planning committee meeting largely focused on objections raised by Bloxwich Hockey Club, which has a long history with the playing fields. The club, established in 1903, had used the site for decades until a recent ruling by Hockey England mandated that league games be played on astroturf surfaces.
Following this requirement, the club relocated to Sneyd Comprehensive on Vernon Way, but the astroturf there was condemned in 2021 due to deterioration. Club chair Katie Yeoman expressed frustration, stating that the council had previously promised an astroturf pitch at King George V Playing Fields as part of the Towns Deal funding, leading to a lack of maintenance at the Sneyd site.
Mike Richardson, representing Walsall Council, clarified that hockey was not included in the initial brief when developing the redevelopment plans. Katie Yeoman suggested that if the proposed 3G football pitch were a 2G pitch instead, it could accommodate hockey, netball, rugby, tennis, and social football, rather than being limited to football alone.
Council Response and Assurances
Councillor Mike Bird, chairman of the planning committee, acknowledged the hockey club's concerns but noted that their objection could not be addressed as a formal planning consideration. However, he offered a firm assurance that efforts would be made to find a suitable pitch for the club.
"I see no reason why we could not have a facility here which could accommodate hockey, whether that be a further pitch or a multi-use of this one," Councillor Bird stated. "I will give you an undertaking that the officers will be instructed to find a provision whether that be here or at an alternative site."
Addressing Additional Concerns
Other objections raised during the meeting included existing antisocial behavior, parking issues, and potential increases in traffic. In response, it was argued that the park enhancements and increased footfall would improve security, with additional CCTV planned to bolster safety measures.
The project also includes 140 parking spaces, which are expected to accommodate peak demand and alleviate parking concerns. The planning committee ultimately found these measures sufficient, leading to the unanimous approval of the redevelopment plans.
This approval sets the stage for a revitalized King George V Playing Fields, promising enhanced recreational opportunities for Bloxwich residents while navigating the complexities of balancing diverse community interests.
