Four parks in Kingston could be upgraded with new artificial sports pitches in a £1.3million project.

Kingston Council wants to install PlayZones in Beverley Park, Churchfields Recreation Ground, Kingston Road Recreation Ground and Manor Park.

The Football Foundation is providing £975,000 to fund the PlayZones, which are designed for a number of sports, while the council is investing £325,000.

Council officers have recommended the authority's Place Committee approves plans to award a £1.3m contract to McArdle Sport Tec Limited to install the facilities on June 16.

A report by council officers said: "PlayZones are safe, inclusive and accessible outdoor facilities that bring communities together through recreational football and a range of other sports, delivered through multi-use game areas.

"The four PlayZones will be located within public parks and greenspaces to maximise access for residents across the borough.

"The programme is aimed at tackling inequalities in physical activity and access to quality recreational facilities by investing in community-led spaces that respond to local needs.

"By creating welcoming and accessible places to be active, the PlayZones will support residents' long-term health, wellbeing and encourage positive social interaction."

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The Football Foundation's consultants are finalising planning applications for each of the PlayZones, which will be submitted and decided by the council in due course.

Construction is expected to begin by next year if the plans are approved.

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