What is #Project Greensleeves?
HHC have been actively seeking opportunities to support the provision of an all weather pitch to the Horley community for the last five years and a number of promising developments are now beginning to present themselves. #ProjectGreensleeves has been approved by the Hockey Section Committee to create an enhanced focus in this area.

What are the new developments?
New housing in the area is likely to mean the population of Horley is set to grow by around 20% over the next few years. One scheme is expected to generate over 1500 new homes and £40million in additional revenue to be spent on new infrastructure, including new leisure facilities. Major developments can create opportunities for S106 agreements include funding for investment in the local community. Additionally, demand for school places is on the rise and Oakwood School are being asked to provide an increase to their intake of students by September 2017. The Horley Secondary school's Headteacher, Mr. Potten, has stated his desire for infrastructure improvements – including changes to the canteen, hall and sports facilities.

http://www.surreymirror.co.uk/hundreds-extra-pupil-spaces-created-horley-s/story-28520043-detail/story.html

What support is there
A GB gold medal for Womens hockey in Rio could not have come at a better time for our club, but we cannot rely on an increased awareness of hockey alone. The club has been building a number of key relationships over the past two years to gain support for our campaign and have received the backing of Local councillors, England hockey, Notts sports (England Hockey facilities partner) & Active surrey.

What need is there for an all weather pitch in Horley?
It may be all well and good that we have received a fantastic amount of backing towards our campaign so far, but we also need to be able to evidence that there is a need for this type of provision within the Horley area. We have reviewed a number of planning guidance reports on the Reigate & Banstead Borough Council (RBBC) and specifically the 'PPG17 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Assessment' highlights a deficit of pitches in the south of the borough that we understand to be in favour of an all weather pitch in the Horley area.

http://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/downloads/download/106/ppg17_open_space_sport_and_recreation_assessment

What have we achieved so far
We are proud to have been able to provide support to Yattendon Primary School (Oakwood Rd, Horley), during their initial planning for their Building Project that will see the provision of an all weather pitch within the grounds. The space available does not allow for a full size hockey pitch, however we believe that this evidences the commitment we have to the community of Horley.

http://www.yattendon.org/progress-by-september-1st-1/

What next for #Projectgreensleeves at?
As you can imagine, the Hockey Section Committee have been working hard to build a credible knowledge base that will ensure Horley Hockey are at the forefront for an all weather pitch provision in Horley. We are now reviewing the viability, of a shortlist, of sites and are progressing with proposals to identify a partner to proceed with. A major consideration in our decision will be ensure that the site will provide a massive benefit for the community as whole and not to limit its potential use from anyone.

What can you do to help?
RBBC have opened a planning development consultation, that allows the community to voice their opinion and considerations towards the development plan. This will undoubtedly provide influence on the Local Authority Plans for the area. The consultation requests feedback on local leisure/community services and we need you to support #ProjectGreensleeves by completing the feedback survey below that closes on the 10th October:

http://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/info/20270/development_management_plan