HAMPTON residents moved a step closer to getting a new sports pavilion in Hatherop Park last week, after the old one was destroyed in an arson attack several years ago.

Richmond upon Thames Council recently joined local residents to discuss the future of Hatherop Park, as part of its drive to improve the borough's parks and playgrounds.

The council's cabinet has now approved an investigation of options to secure the rebuilding of a sports pavilion and discussions with potential funding partners.

Following the fire, the council holds insurance money totalling £63,000, which is to be put towards the replacement building.

The council has also set aside £80,000 for replacing the park's dilapidated playground.

After consulting with the Friends of Hatherop Park group, a playground design and contractor have been chosen - who will manufacture the equipment for installation in the spring.

Options being explored include forming partnerships with Hampton Thistles Football Club, who play and train there, Busen Martial Arts Club or Twickenham Rugby Football Club.

Cabinet member for environment and planning, Cllr David Marlow, said: "The Hatherop Park initiative underlines our determination to work with the community to ensure our parks are maintained and enhanced for current and future generations to enjoy.

"It is all part of our drive to improve the environment and harness community and voluntary effort in the borough and encourage civic pride.

He added: "On this particular initiative, we are working very closely with local people, to ensure they are fully consulted so that the improvements and facilities provided are in line with what they want."

The planned improvements will be top of the agenda when the Friends of Hatherop Park next meet, on March 22, at The White House Community Centre, The Avenue, Hampton, at 7pm. All are welcome to attend.

Cllr Bill Treble, Lib Dem spokesperson on libraries, art and sport, commented: "I am pleased that Hampton residents are to benefit from new facilities at Hatherop Park.

"However, I am still waiting to hear what is planned for the money, part of that provided by the RFU, set aside for the building of a vandal proof pavilion in Murray Park Whitton.

"The planned building was blocked by the opposition in April of 2002.

"A pavilion with changing facilities would increase the use of Murray Park, now used by dog walkers, by local sports teams and help towards giving the youth of the borough a healthy lifestyle."