Elmbridge Borough Council takes steps to secure a long-term future for Oaken Lane, Claygate

Elmbridge Borough Council is taking the next step towards securing a long-term future for the Oaken Lane site in Claygate, with the aim of bringing the land back into active recreational and leisure use.

Residents may be aware that Elmbridge Eagles Rugby Club has been unable to use the site for a number of years due to the presence of approximately 52,000 tonnes of soil that was deposited on the land. The material was brought onto the site as part of pitch improvement works. However, the amount imported significantly exceeded the level permitted and did not have the necessary planning compliance, Environment Agency permissions or freeholder consent.

As a result, the playing pitches have remained unusable and the site has been unable to fulfil its intended purpose as a community sports facility.

Although the council did not create these issues, it has dedicated considerable time and resources over many years to working with the club and exploring ways to restore the site and support its future use.

Looking ahead to the future

Our focus is on creating a positive and sustainable future for Oaken Lane.

We want to see the site restored and brought back into use. At its September meeting, Elmbridge Cabinet will also discuss marketing the site for recreational and leisure use with the aim of ensuring this important local asset once again provides opportunities for sport and recreation.

Councillor Simon Waugh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Commercial Strategy

"Our priority is to see Oaken Lane restored and brought back into long term use.

"For many years we have worked hard to find a solution to the issues affecting the site and have invested significant time and resources in doing so. While these issues were not caused by the council, we have remained focused on finding a constructive way forward.

" Our ambition is simple: to see Oaken Lane once again providing leisure and recreation use for residents."

Restoring Oaken Lane for leisure and recreational use

We have worked with Elmbridge Eagles Rugby League Club for many years to help resolve the issues at Oaken Lane and support its growth as a Rugby League club in the South East. 

We remain committed to supporting all grassroots sport across Elmbridge through investment, partnership working and practical support.

Elmbridge Eagles Rugby Club have been encouraged to participate in the process, with rugby league proposals considered alongside a range of other recreational and leisure opportunities that could benefit the wider community.

We will continue to engage constructively with the club and the sport's governing body as future options for the site are explored.

Read the Elmbridge Cabinet report.