Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has reached a key milestone in its strategic priority to assess Hook Road Arena’s suitability for a mixed-use leisure and residential development. The council has commissioned Continuum Sport & Leisure (Continuum), an independent consultancy appointed through the Sport England Framework, to carry out a Best Value Feasibility Study to explore the site's development potential.

Continuum will consult with community sports clubs and groups in Epsom & Ewell this autumn through in-person workshops and an online survey to understand local sports priorities, and to identify the types of sports provision most needed in the borough that could be provided at the site.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, said: 

“The borough needs more local sports and leisure provision, so that people can easily access high-quality facilities close to home. We also recognise the need to deliver much-needed housing, including affordable homes, in Epsom & Ewell. I’m therefore pleased to be able to announce this important next step, which will help us understand how the site can best support both of these priorities. 

“Local sports clubs and groups have a valuable understanding of the sport and leisure needs of our communities, and it’s essential that we hear their views. This engagement will help us build a clear picture of local needs and priorities, ensuring that any future sports provision at Hook Road Arena is informed by the views of local sports clubs and groups, in support of the communities they serve.”

Nick Trim, Director of Continuum Sport & Leisure added:

“We are excited to be working with Epsom and Ewell Borough Council on the potential development of the community sport hub at Hook Road Arena. 

Our work across the country consistently shows an increase in demand for sports facilities with significant growth in many sports, not only nationally but also for Epsom and Ewell itself. 

We look forward to consulting local sports clubs to understand the sporting needs in the borough and to explore options of what facilities could be part of much needed investment into sport, physical activity and wellbeing for the residents of the borough.”

More information, including a contact email for any local sports groups that would like to respond but have not received the survey or an invitation to a workshop via their governing body, as well as FAQs, can be found on the council’s website: Hook Road Arena Sports Consultation

The final report will be presented to the Strategy and Resources Committee before 31 March 2027. Any future decision to proceed with development would need to be supported by a robust business case and would be subject to approval by the new East Surrey authority.

Any future planning application would be accompanied by a formal consultation, giving residents and stakeholders the opportunity to review proposals and provide their views.