Some of you may recall that the Club undertook a survey of all members in April 2014 asking for the top 3 areas in which the Club could improve its offering. Overwhelmingly the members indicated that training and practice facilities needed improving, in particular the provision of new cricket nets.

The Committee has been working hard over the last few months to try to bring this wish to fruition. We have assessed the best location for a new nets facility, and have concluded that the area between the pavilion and the hard court will be best suited. This location gives easy access from the changing rooms and both pitches and allows those using the nets to keep an eye on matches that are in progress. It is also near to power sources to enable the use of a bowling machine.

Having selected the location, we then invited tenders from 3 ECB approved suppliers. Following receipt of their submissions, we selected our preferred supplier - Notts Sports. Notts Sports have many years experience in installing cricket nets and other artificial playing facilities, including some excellent credentials in the local area. Their detailed drawings for the new facility are attached to this note, showing a fully artificial net area to maximise usability and minimise ongoing maintenance requirements.

With detailed plans in place, we then sought planning permission for the new facility, which was granted by Spelthorne Borough Council in November 2014.

The next and final step is to secure funding for the new nets. The cost of a modern new nets facility such as we have designed is substantial, and well beyond the existing financial resources of the Club. As such, we are dependent upon external grant funding to enable us to progress with our plans. To support our cause, we have obtained 3 letters of support for this project - from our local MP, from Surrey Cricket and from Spelthorne Borough Council. We have filed grant applications with a number of bodies, most particularly the Biffa Award scheme, and await the outcome of their deliberations. Notification of whether our applications have been successful is expected to be received in May.

Any members looking for further information about these plans should contact Paul Frost at treasurer@ashfordcc.co.uk.