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Village Green And Cricket Net Rejuvenation Works Begin This September

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  • News Post

Village Green And Cricket Net Rejuvenation Works Begin This September

We’re excited to share that the Village Green at Paddington Recreation Ground is set for rejuvenation works to create a refreshed and welcoming space for the community. 

Over time, the surface of the green has become worn, uneven and compacted through regular use and changing weather conditions. Potholes, cracking and thinning grass have reduced both the quality and safety of the space. As a much-loved area for play, leisure and relaxation, the Village Green deserves care and investment. These rejuvenation works will restore the lawn, improve drainage, and create a healthier, greener and more resilient space that the whole community can enjoy for years to come

Works will officially commence as of next Monday 22nd September and be completed by Monday 1st December. 

*Please note dates are subject to change depending on weather conditions*

Village Green Planned Works

  • Week 1: The green will be carefully koroed, removing the old sward, small stones and some soil. Levels and contours will be re-established, while existing potholes and cracks will be repaired. 
  • Week 2: Soil and sand will be spread, seed beds prepared, and a new seed mix sown to rejuvenate the lawn.

Once seeded, the Village Green will remain fenced off to allow the grass to grow and establish. If weather conditions are favourable, we anticipate reopening the green in early December.

Cricket Nets Upgrade

In addition, works will commence on the cricket practice nets from 29 September to 27 October. These improvements will introduce a new playing surface, new nets and new sight screens. The playing surface will be constructed to ECB guidelines, ensuring a high-quality facility for training and development.

We will endeavour to complete these works as quickly and efficiently as possible, keeping disruption to a minimum throughout the process and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused. 

Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding in advance.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to a revitalised facilities later this year.

Protect The Planet One Bottle Or Can At A Time – Try Our Reverse Vending Machine

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Protect The Planet One Bottle Or Can At A Time – Try Our Reverse Vending Machine

16 September is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, a global reminder of how important it is to protect our environment and safeguard the future of our planet. This year’s theme highlights that when communities come together, positive change is possible.

Right here in Westminster, you can play your part with something as simple as recycling your drink containers. Our Reverse Vending Machine makes it quick and rewarding to do just that.

What is a Reverse Vending Machine?

The machine accepts empty plastic bottles and cans, giving you an easy way to recycle on the go. Instead of ending up in landfill, your containers are captured cleanly and sent for recycling, keeping valuable materials in use and cutting down on waste.

How it works

Users can deposit single-use plastic bottles and aluminium drinks cans into the machine, and for every item deposited, 10p will be donated to the North Paddington Youth Club with 188 items (159 bottles and 29 cans) already deposited, making a helpful start to raise funds.
 
So, come along to Paddington Recreation Ground and check it out.
 

Visit the Reverse Vending Machine at the Pavilion in Paddington Recreation Ground – take a simple step that helps cut waste, protect our environment and show how local action supports global change.

Why does it matter for the ozone layer?

While the machine doesn’t directly capture ozone-depleting substances, it contributes to the bigger picture:

  • Less waste, less energy – Recycling reduces the need to produce new plastics and cans from scratch, lowering emissions and energy use.
  • Cleaner air – Cutting down on landfill and incineration means fewer harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.
  • Community action – By choosing to recycle, you’re part of a global movement protecting both our climate and the ozone layer that shields life on Earth.

Small steps, big impact

Protecting the ozone layer has been a worldwide success story since the Montreal Protocol – but it’s not a job finished. By building sustainable habits like using the Reverse Vending Machine, we keep that progress moving forward.

  • Small actions add up.
  • Drop in your bottles and cans.
  • Be part of the change.

Recycle today, protect tomorrow – try the Reverse Vending Machine.

Celebrate World Environment Day By Recycling For A Cause At Paddington Recreation Ground!

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Celebrate World Environment Day By Recycling For A Cause At Paddington Recreation Ground!

 

This World Environment Day (5 June), join the global movement to #BeatPlasticPollution by taking action right here in Westminster.

Our Reverse Vending Machine in the Pavilion at Paddington Recreation Ground is ready for your single-use plastic bottles and aluminium cans. And every item you deposit it helps both the planet and our local community.

Installed following a recommendation from Westminster’s Climate Assembly and brought to life through the Westminster Innovations Challenge, this machine is a smart solution to reduce waste and do some good

Why it Matters

Recycling aluminium saves 95% of the energy needed to make new cans. Recycling just one plastic bottle can power a light bulb for up to 6 hours. It also keeps harmful waste out of our streets, rivers, and green spaces.

Support North Paddington Youth Club

  • Deposit your cans and bottles into the machine at Paddington Rec.
  • 10p per item goes directly to North Paddington Youth Club.
  • Reach 2,500 items and Everyone Active will donate an extra £500! So far this year we have had 496. 

Why Some Items May be Rejected

To make sure your recycling counts, it’s important to follow a few simple rules. The most common reason for rejected items is missing barcodes—often because they’re part of a multipack where the barcode is only on the outer wrapping.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the top rejection reasons:

  • No barcode 
  • Double bottle inserted 
  • Shape error
  • Unrecognised barcode 
  • Bottle pulled out before scanning
  • Material error
  • Bin full – please notify staff if this happens

** Top tip: Make sure each item has a clear barcode and is inserted one at a time to ensure it’s accepted! **

Find the Reverse Vending Machine in the pavilion at Paddington Recreation Ground today – and be part of of a local effort to protect the planet and support local youth. 

Let’s recycle smart, support our community and #BeatPlasticPollution together.

Your Community, Your Wellbeing: Get Involved This Mental Health Awareness Week

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Your Community, Your Wellbeing: Get Involved This Mental Health Awareness Week

One week, three ways to feel better – All we are missing is YOU!

From Monday 12th May to Sunday 18th May, we’re proud to support Mental Health Awareness Week – led by the Mental Health Foundation – the UK’s leading charity for mental health. 

This year’s theme is “Community” — highlighting how our relationships and sense of connection to others are vital to our mental well-being. Being part of a community helps us feel supported, valued, and less alone.

What’s on: Free activities across Westminster

At ActiveWestminster, we believe in the power of community to change lives. That’s why, with the support of our leisure partner Everyone Active, we’re running free, inclusive and community-focused wellness activities across Westminster — to help bring people together, move, share, and connect:

  • Mindfulness Painting: A relaxed, creative space to connect with others and take a mindful moment for yourself. No experience needed — just bring yourself and a willingness to unwind.
    Jubilee Community Leisure Centre
  • Badminton & Table Tennis Taster Sessions: Delivered by our friends at Sport in Mind, these fun sessions are a great way to meet new people, move your body, and enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
    Church Street Leisure Centre
  • Yoga Sessions: Gentle, welcoming sessions to help you breathe, stretch, and share a calming moment in a shared space.
    Everyone Active Centres across Westminster

Be part of the movement

Looking for more ways to get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week? Visit the official website for inspiring stories, practical tips, and ways you and your community can support better mental health for all.

Let’s move together towards better mental health. See you there!

Join the Movement

Active Streets Programme: Transforming Westminster’s Streets into Spaces for Play

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Active Streets Programme: Transforming Westminster’s Streets into Spaces for Play

The Active Streets Programme is an exciting initiative designed to bring physical activity to your doorstep in Westminster. By transforming residential streets into spaces for play, the programme encourages local engagement, boosts active travel, and improves air quality.

Let’s Play Outside!

With options such as Street Play and Play Street for residents and School Streets for schools, the programme allows to host safe play sessions that promote community connections and healthier lifestyles.

So explore now how you can take part in creating a more active and vibrant community right outside your door.

Learn More and Apply

JUST OVER A WEEK TO GO! Network Funding Applications closing on Sunday 30th March

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JUST OVER A WEEK TO GO! Network Activity Project Funding Applications Closing Sunday 30th March

The deadline for the ActiveWestminster Network partners to submit a proposal for funding support of up to £2000 is fast approaching. Make sure you apply by next Sunday 30th March at midnight.

This funding can be used to support a new or to upscale an existing health and wellbeing physical activity community project. 

Project Delivery Timeframe: April 2025 – March 2026

Please note funding is subject to network partners and their projects meeting specific criteria as outlined on on our dedicated page on our website – you can find all the information you need here: Network Activity Project Funding 

Submission Deadline Fast Approaching: Sunday 30th March 2025 at midnight 

Please note funding is subject to network partners and their projects meeting specific criteria as outlined on on our dedicated page on our website – you can find all the information you need here: Network Activity Project Funding 

Make an impact in your community, APPLY NOW!

Apply Now