Revamp for historic town cricket ground
Plans submitted to Scarborough Council would see a number of improvements made to the ground, including alterations to the ticket office and pavilion windows, an external lift shaft to the existing pavilion and external alterations, demolition and replacement of the existing toilet block on the east terrace and a new shop adjoining the new toilet block.
Oliver Barker, of agent Smith Smalley Architects, said: “The proposals include improvements in both aesthetics and function to various buildings and structures within Scarborough Cricket Club.
“The improvements will not only enhance the site for the benefit of its users but also for the surrounding area.
“Many of the existing structures within the site have, over time, become dilapidated, unsightly and in need of renovation.
“The proposals aim to address these issues and bring the cricket club up-to-date using modern environmentally friendly materials and construction methods.
“The site is used primarily for the enjoyment of cricket. However, the pavilion is also used for social functions. Within the site, and as part of this application, include a ticket office, pavilion. Carlsberg bar, toilet block behind the east terrace, tea room on the south terrace and scoreboard.”
Mr Barker added: “The amount of development has been carefully considered in order to enhance the site aesthetically and functionally. The proposals include renewal of most elements in the existing cricket grounds. In most instances this simply includes painting and renewing areas such as the stands and existing buildings.
“All design elements have been given the utmost consideration in line with the policies of the Scarborough Council local plan and it is our opinion that the materials chosen will complement the existing style and inherent architectural characteristics of the cricket club and local area.”
In August it was announced the ground will definitely host first-class county action for the next decade following confirmation of an exclusive deal with Yorkshire after months of protracted negotiations.
The deal means the ground will continue to host its ever-popular annual Cricket Festival, which is set to celebrate its 125th anniversary next year.
The ground has previously attracted criticism for the standard of its facilities and last year Scarborough Cricket Club chairman Bill Mustoe hit back at comments in the national press, criticising the state of the ground, after an article in The Guardian claimed “cricket at Scarborough seemed in terminal decline”.
But a high-profile restoration project, which featured current England paceman James Anderson and ex-Test captain Mike Gatting, gave it a new lease of life.
