Exciting News: Hesketh Park Irrigation & Borehole Project Resumes!

When our pavilion was built back in 2014–15, the club set out an ambitious 'green target' to construct a rainwater harvesting system for the Hesketh Park square and outfield. While key infrastructure—such as our 25,000-litre underground storage tank—was installed at the time, budget constraints forced us to put the rest of the project on hold.

Now, after a 10-year pause, Dartford Cricket Club is thrilled to announce that we are officially **resuming and progressing to the next phases** of this crucial project!

**What the Project Involves**

Starting towards the end of **September 2026**, work will begin on two main phases:

- **Phase 1 (Harvesting & Extraction):** Connecting the existing pavilion guttering directly to our 25,000-litre storage tank, drilling a brand-new borehole, and installing a pumping system capable of extracting up to 20,000 litres of water per day. - **Phase 2 (Distribution Infrastructure):** Installing new pipework and multiple connection points along the side of the playing surface. This will feed into an upgraded pumping system, offering significantly enhanced water pressure and flow for our current sprinkler setup.

Work is scheduled so that the system will capture the winter rains, coming fully online and operational for **early Spring 2027**.

**Why This Matters**

This investment ensures we are far less vulnerable to the prolonged dry spells experienced in recent summers. It will allow us to maintain our high-quality cricket square while continuously improving the outfield for all Hesketh Park users. Beyond pitch quality, completing this rainwater retention facility fulfills our original environmental vision—making DCC's overall operations substantially more sustainable.

**Looking Ahead**

A future phase—currently in the planning stage—will focus on installing an automated, pop-up sprinkler system across the square and outfield that can be operated remotely overnight when the park is closed. This phase will rely on upcoming fundraising and small grant applications.

As we approach **2027—the Tercentenary of organised cricket in Dartford (1727–2027)**—our 300-year celebrations will provide a fantastic platform for further fundraising!

**Acknowledgements & Thanks**

To make these immediate September phases possible, Dartford Cricket Club secured essential funding support. We extend our immense gratitude to:

- **The ECB Tackling Climate Change Fund** - **Kent Recreational Welfare Trust** - **Dartford Borough Council Community Fund** - **Our generous private donors** from both within and outside the club membership

If you have any questions regarding the project, please feel free to reach out to any member of the Management Committee.