A scheme to transform the Vine Road Recreation ground in Barnes around a new social hub, serving as a café and climate change refuge, is being backed by the Council.

The building would be designed so it can also serve as a refuge for at risk members of the community during climate-related emergencies, such as flooding due to extreme rain, heatwaves or extreme cold snaps.

The building is believed to be one of the first in the UK designed with this facility, which would 'bring together climate resilient building design alongside other benefits to wellbeing offered by a park environment'.

New design will include large water play area (credit https://barnescommon.org.uk/)

Richmond Borough Council is providing money to allow Barnes Common Friends to allow them to turn their ideas into a workable design and planning application.

The site, which is wedged between two sets of train tracks in Barnes, is a popular place for picnics, games, recreation, learning and socialising.

In the past it has been home to a thriving market garden, an orchard that at one time saw young girls travel from far afield to earn money to take home at harvest time. In a previous life it hosted a successful outdoor bowls club and even donkey rides.

Skateboard track will feature on the land (https://barnescommon.org.uk/)

The Master Plan for the reinvention includes a skateboard pump track, community growing, an enlarged water play area, re-landscaping to improve flood resilience and biodiversity – as well as the social hub with café.

The Council is using money from its climate emergency fund to take the scheme through the design and planning process.

Chair of Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, said: "I am delighted that Richmond Council are supporting this exciting and innovative proposal.

Overview of the new look recreation ground (https://barnescommon.org.uk/)

"Working together with the community to build resilience and foster wellbeing, while facing the increasing challenges of climate change."

Mike Hildesley, chair of Barnes Common, said: "It is so encouraging to receive good news in these times of uncertainty. Moving forward to Planning is a significant step towards realising the fantastic Master Plan for this much-loved park."