Proposal to introduce Pétanque pistes to Kneller Gardens
Overview
The Parks Team at Richmond Council, with the support of the Friends of Kneller Gardens and local councillors, are proposing to introduce a Pétanque piste (terrain) to Kneller Gardens. Pétanque, known in France as 'boules,' is a game played on gravel surfaces.
Pétanque is an inclusive sport for everyone, including wheelchair users. As part of this proposal, a formal pathway will connect this area to the existing hardstanding in front and at the rear of the café building (near the toilets). Additionally, a new bench will be installed for park users. Signage will be provided to explain the rules of play, ensuring new players can participate with full instructions. This facility will be free for everyone to access. The café will offer a set of boules that can be borrowed for free as part of a deposit system, making it accessible to all park users. A set of boules typically costs around £30, and we expect regular players to purchase their own sets.
The recommended dimensions for a pitch are 12 metres in length and 3 metres in width, with square or rectangular sections, and edges approximately 40mm high to retain the gravel surface. The Parks Team proposes creating two pitches side by side, allowing for simultaneous games. The total measurement of the two pitches will be 12 metres by 6 metres. The design includes an accessible entry point to accommodate users of all abilities. The surface will be made of compacted gravel.
Click here to see an example of a piste in Westerely Ware that was installed in 2023
Click here to see a scaled map of the proposed location in the park
Yellow - Pathway to the piste and around the café
Red - Petanque piste (12m x 6m)
White Line - Approximate location of the football pitch
Click here to read more about Pétanque participation in the UK
Traditionally played on French town squares, Pétanque (also known as boules), is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. There are now over 250 clubs across the country, including four well-used ones in the Borough of Richmond: Palewell Park in Sheen, Westerley Ware in Kew (built in 2023), Marble Hill Park and and Diamond Jubilee Gardens (DJG) in Twickenham.
This game is enjoyed by players of all ages and can be played both socially and competitively. It is a sport that welcomes people of all ages, genders, and abilities, combining fresh air and gentle exercise with the sociability of a tactical team game.
The DJG pitch will be unavailable starting February 2025, as it becomes part of the Twickenham Riverside development. Regular users at DJG are keen to shift to Kneller Gardens in Spring 2025.
Have your say
Please give us your feedback using the Online Survey link below. If you need to request a paper questionnaire or any other format, please contact Parks@richmond.gov.uk or call 0208 891 1411 and ask to speak to the Parks Team.
What happens next
All feedback we receive in response to the consultation will be carefully analysed and considered before a decision is made on the way forward.
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Areas
- All Areas
Audiences
- Open to all
Interests
- Richmond Borough
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