The proposals, set to be agreed by Merton Council’s cabinet, would see a new four-court sports hall built at the Morden Leisure Centre.
The new space would provide more room for residents to engage in basketball, gymnastics, badminton, and netball. These initiatives, along with other investments across the borough, are reportedly made possible by the council’s strong financial position and its entrepreneurial approach to securing external funding.
The full array of improvements is detailed in the council’s Playing Pitch Strategy, which aims to enhance pitches and indoor sports facilities.
Cllr Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, cabinet member for sport and heritage, said: “We know from Sport England data that Merton is becoming more active, and the number of sports clubs has more than doubled in recent years.
“Having high quality facilities on every resident’s doorstep is a key part of becoming London’s first-ever Borough of Sport. And this strategy, which will help deliver a brand-new sports hall at Morden Leisure Centre and other improvements across Merton, is vital to enabling people to get and to stay active.”
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Although several strengths were noted—like tennis and swimming facilities—rising demand and a shortage of facilities for some major sports were highlighted. Several major projects are already underway, including upgrades to cricket pitches, as well as improvements to football pitches and pavilions.
Residents are also set to benefit from four new multi-use games areas, made possible by funding from the Football Foundation.
The council said its commitment to improving sports facilities across the borough has so far borne fruit in the form of the refurbishment of 47 tennis courts, upgrades to King George’s Pavilion, various cricket pitch upgrades, the installation of 27 Equip Boxes for sports equipment rental, and upgrades to playgrounds and paddling pools.
The Playing Pitch and Facility Strategy covers 2026 to 2038. It will be discussed at cabinet on Monday 19.
Improvements to the borough have also included new kitchens and changing facilities at King George’s Pavilion and Cold Blows at Canons House and Grounds running track, a new artificial Grass Pitch at Mitcham Cricket Club and cricket pitch upgrades in various parks and recreation grounds.
