THCC set for major upgrade with a new two‑lane Non‑Turf Pitch installation

Turners Hill Cricket Club is preparing to take one of the most significant steps forward in its long village history, with plans fully in motion for the installation of a brand‑new, two‑lane non‑turf practice facility. This state‑of‑the‑art development marks a transformative moment for the club, its players, and the wider Turners Hill community.

With a total project cost of ~£40,000, the club has secured vital financial backing from Mid Sussex District Council ("MSDC") and Sport England, whose support has been instrumental in turning an ambitious idea into a deliverable project. This funding has been complemented by an extraordinary show of local generosity. Through a dedicated Crowdfunder campaign, the club successfully raised £5,000, with contributions coming from players, parents, residents, and supporters who recognise the long‑term value of investing in grassroots sport. At a time where many small village clubs struggle to keep facilities maintained, our project stands out from the crowd and brings new opportunities. 

Once installed, the new two‑lane non‑turf pitch will be the first facility of its kind in the club’s history. The surface will be state‑of‑the‑art, designed to provide consistent bounce, safe playing conditions, and year‑round usability. The club has seen junior participation explode in recent years—thanks mainly to the success of All Stars and Dynamos Cricket—this upgrade arrives at exactly the right moment. It will allow Turners Hill to deliver higher‑quality coaching, expand participation, and support the development of players at every level.

One of the most important aspects of the project is its purpose. The club’s vision is clear: cricket should be available, enjoyable, and welcoming to everyone in Turners Hill. The new practice lanes will support that mission by offering:

• Regular training for senior and junior teams
• Structured coaching programmes
• Opportunities for new players to try cricket in a safe, supportive environment
• A reliable training space during wetter months
• A focal point for community sport and youth development

A full planning application has been submitted and is now under review by Mid Sussex District Council and Turners Hill Parish Council. The club has worked hard to ensure the proposal is thoughtful, responsible, and aligned with the needs of the village. This includes careful consideration of location, appearance, environmental impact, and community benefit. Early feedback has been positive, and the club remains optimistic as the application moves through the required stages swiftly. All being well, installtion is currently scheduled to commence in May 2026.

Further information regarding the planning application can be found on the Mid Sussex District Council portal.