What is the pound Leas Project?
Hamstreet has grown—and so has the need for more accessible, inclusive facilities for all ages and interests. We’ve been listening to your ideas, and together we’re working to create an expanded and improved space for the whole community to enjoy.
In February 2026, Orlestone Parish Council completed the purchase of land, and the Pound Leas Project began – a phased, long-term programme of enhancements that is being shaped by residents through public engagement sessions and delivered by residents through a cross-community Action Group.
In February this year, the community came together, and gave their ideas. This formed a wishlist from across every part of the community. The Action Group have met regularly since to review the list for deliverability, including exploring with design experts what could possibly work as a holistic, integrated site, that gives all of Hamstreet & District somewhere they can enjoy for leisure and sport.
What’s in the Vision?
The proposed master plan (attached) includes:
● An outdoor gym area
● A small children’s play area
● A walking and running track of around 800 metres
● Secure dog walking space
● Pump track and skateboard area
● Paddle tennis court
● New hard surfaced informal multi-use basketball games ‘caged’ area
● Additional grass football pitches (with the flexibility to accommodate cricket or other grass sports) to provide 2 per playing format for youth football from ages 6 to 13.
● Community allotments
● Expansion of parking facilities
And the option of a 3G all-weather pitch (if not a 3G pitch this space will form another Adult full sized Grass pitch)
These new facilities listed include everything from the community’s initial ideas, except the few items which are not deliverable at the site for practical reasons. Together with what we have today, these new facilities are designed to create a welcoming, active, and sustainable space for everyone in the community and surrounding area.
The Design Process
The Action Group has worked hard to bring together ideas to create a concept design layout (link or image below) that reflects as many priorities as possible. But as the project moves into funding and planning stages, it will remain flexible and may evolve based on resources, permissions, and further consultation.
Cost
The current estimated total cost of delivering the full Pound Leas Project is around £3 million,subject to surveys, etc. This funding will be secured through a combination of:
● Grant applications / Partner Funding
● Existing Section 106 (s106) allocations
● Local fundraising and community-led initiatives
We are committed to ensuring that the project remains financially sustainable beyond the initial construction phases.
Feedback from the community
Following a community-wide consultation, we asked for feedback, with a particular focus on the potential inclusion of a 3G artificial grass pitch.
The response was encouraging, with over 350 responses received and 86% in favour of further exploring the 3G pitch option. This feedback will help inform the next stages of this aspect of the design as we work to shape facilities that meet the needs of our community.
Next Action Group Meeting
The next Pound Leas Project Action Group meeting will be held on Thursday 12th November 2026 at The Pavilion, Hamstreet.
Everyone is welcome to attend, get involved and participate in the discussion. This is an opportunity to hear the latest updates, share your views and help shape the next steps for the Pound Leas Project.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Be part of the project
Built by the community, for the community
The Pound Leas Project