Nets Replacement, Rankins Cricket Club, Rochford

This is a project to replace two practice nets at Rankins Cricket Club in Rochford, near Southend-on-Sea.

Rankins Cricket Club is a thriving community hub with a proud history at the heart of Rochford. It urgently needs to replace its practice nets, which are over ten years old, damaged by wildlife, and no longer safe for regular use. While the club is financially stable, the limited surplus means it cannot make this essential investment without external support. Replacing the nets will allow the club to:
• Provide safe, high-quality training facilities for the growing youth and women’s
sections
• Sustain the five adult teams and ensure their continued participation in local leagues
• Attract and retain members of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities
• Secure the long-term sustainability of cricket in the community

“The nets are where our players build their skills and confidence; without safe facilities, it’s almost impossible for them to develop and enjoy the game properly.” Bill Sillett, Youth Coach

The nets are no longer safe or fit for purpose. Root growth, uneven surfaces, and damage from wildlife make training inconsistent and unsafe. Without replacement, structured training will stop, which would:
• Prevent juniors from learning and developing their skills
• Restrict women’s and men’s practice
• Risk loss of membership and decline of the club