A distinguished private members’ club located in West London has submitted a proposal for the construction of a new cricket pavilion that will enhance accessibility for disabled visitors and provide restroom facilities for spectators.

The Hurlingham Club, based in Fulham, indicated through its planning documentation to Hammersmith and Fulham Council that its current pavilion, which has been in use for over 30 years, is no longer suitable for its clientele.

This opulent sports and social establishment, which includes the Princess of Wales among its members, plans to replace the aging structure with a new wooden pavilion designed to reflect traditional cricket architecture, featuring a pitched roof, expansive verandas, and intricate timber craftsmanship.

Should the proposal receive approval, the pavilion will span 165 square meters, nearly doubling the area of the current facility.

The new clubhouse is designed to provide level access to various amenities, including a clubroom, service area, changing rooms for umpires, and restrooms.

During the winter months, it will be utilized by croquet players, with fields set up on the cricket ground, while also serving as a resting area for members enjoying strolls through the grounds.

Additionally, the pavilion will cater to the Young Hurlingham and Hartbeeps, children’s programs organized by the club.

The current facility consists of two dilapidated portable cabins nearing the end of their functional lifespan, lacking changing areas for officials and restroom facilities for spectators. It does not offer accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs.

The Hurlingham Club emphasized that the existing pavilion falls short of the “standards expected by the club, its members, or visitors,” as well as the guidelines set forth by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), highlighting its inaccessibility for those facing mobility challenges.

As detailed in the application, the Hurlingham Club is a private social and sports venue set within 42 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds adjacent to the River Thames.

Recognized as “one of the premier private member clubs globally,” the establishment has provided croquet, tennis courts, botanical gardens, and a magnificent Georgian clubhouse to its members since its founding in 1869. It is considered the birthplace of polo.

The Grade II listed Hurlingham House serves as the club’s main building, hosting club rooms, dining facilities, offices, a gym, as well as indoor courts for tennis, pickleball, padel, and an indoor swimming pool.

Annual membership fees are reported to be £1,400, and the club maintains a closed membership list that is reviewed only once a year.