FAQs
Could some of the soccer fields at Sherwood Forest be converted to a "temporary" cricket pitch for the 2027 season, while we await the longer term plans to build a permanent pitch at Sherwood?
City staff have carefully evaluated all potential options to accommodate a temporary cricket pitch during construction at Central Park and to help address increasing demand until a second permanent pitch is developed at Sherwood Forest Park.
This review considered a range of factors, including field size and configuration, existing park uses, and the level of investment required to establish a temporary facility. Based on this analysis, Sherwood Forest Park has been determined to be an unsuitable location for a temporary cricket pitch at this time.
Why did staff not wait for the Ombudsman report recommendations before advancing the Central cricket renovation work? any indication of when the report will come to public/council, the community would be interested to know that too.
City staff are aware of an Ombudsman report that is expected to be released in late summer or early fall. The Ombudsman has conducted a review and will provide guidance to staff on processes, along with recommendations related to the delivery of municipal services.
Do staff track complaints from residents that have come in over the years about cricket?
Staff track complaints and feedback received through emails and phone calls to identify trends and inform service delivery decisions. In 2023, concerns were raised by residents living adjacent to the park. These concerns continued into 2024, particularly during the summer months when cricket activity is at its peak.
In response, staff undertook engagement with residents and local cricket organizations to better understand the issues. This process ultimately led to the engagement of a consultant to conduct an independent safety assessment.