Between 10th September and 1st October, Windsor & Eton Football Club carried out a 21-day consultation on our plans to install a new 3G pitch at Stag Meadow.
This process included an in-person consultation meeting for local residents, as well as opportunities to respond via both online and paper-based surveys. In addition, we are proud to note that 1,184 people have to date signed our petition of support, demonstrating the breadth of backing across the Windsor community.
In total, 113 consultation survey responses were received from the public. Of these, over 82% expressed clear support for the principle of development and its positive impact on the community.
It is also important to note that around 79% of responses came from the SL4 postcode, demonstrating that the views shared are highly local and relevant to the local community.
Key themes raised and our responses
Community benefit
The overwhelming message from the consultation was that this project would be a fantastic asset for Windsor. Residents, parents and teachers highlighted the value of creating a safe, affordable and accessible space that promotes physical activity, wellbeing and community pride.
As one teacher put it: “As a teacher in one of the local schools where boys and girls from the school are proud to represent WEFC, this will be an excellent place for them.”
Parents and residents also spoke passionately about the importance of facilities for young people:
“I think it is important to provide a facility for the youth of Windsor to encourage children to be active.”
“Improvements to encourage the increased use of sports facilities in the local community should be backed wholly and unreservedly.”
“Would be a fantastic asset for the community and promotes all of the physical and mental benefits of team sports.”
“What a great opportunity for the town of Windsor to have access to such a wonderful site.”
“Our children need a safe and affordable space to support their football journeys.”
The responses showed that the community sees the proposed 3G pitch as a vital investment in Windsor’s young people and a facility that will benefit the town for years to come.
Environment and ecology
Some respondents understandably raised concerns about wildlife, biodiversity and the sustainability of a 3G pitch. As part of our planning application, independent specialists will carry out a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal and a Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment, ensuring at least a 10% biodiversity improvement. Containment measures will also prevent microplastic shedding, and the pitch will meet strict Football Foundation standards.
Health and safety
We understand that some residents have questions about the health implications of 3G pitches. It is important to highlight that there are now over 2,000 3G pitches across the UK (including locally at Dedworth Middle School and neighbouring sporting clubs such as Slough Town FC, Ascot United FC, Burnham FC and Maidenhead Rugby Club) and that several major, independent scientific studies have been conducted in recent years.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) concluded there is “no reason to advise people against playing sports on synthetic turf containing recycled rubber granules.”
A 2020 pan-European scientific study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Science of the Total Environment, found:
• No health concerns associated with artificial grass pitches using ELT-derived infill
• Cancer risks from exposure to PAHs were below 1 in 1 million
• Risk characterisation ratios for non-carcinogenic substances were well below thresholds of concern
These findings give us confidence, alongside Football Foundation guidance, that the proposed surface at Stag Meadow will be safe for all users, from our youngest players to veterans.
Light and noise
Concerns were raised about evening use. The pitch will operate between 9am–10pm only and not 11pm that has been wrongly reported elsewhere, and no tannoy will be used in the evenings outside of senior men’s matches. The floodlights on our current pylons will be replaced with modern LED technology, reducing light spill into neighbouring areas.
Traffic and parking
Parking and congestion were raised by some residents. On senior men’s matchdays, historically the busiest, we already operate a traffic and parking management plan, with stewards in place and overflow parking identified. Outside of these times, usage will mostly be by youth teams and schools, with far lower traffic.
Importantly, the consultation showed that the majority of respondents (45%) would choose to walk or cycle to the site, with a further 9% combining walking with limited car use. Only 28% said they would drive directly, while 5% indicated they would use public transport alongside driving. This data underlines that many users are local and intend to travel sustainably.
To build on this, a Travel and Car Park Management Plan will be introduced to encourage walking, cycling, car sharing and public transport, alongside clear signage and information for visitors.
Car park barrier
Some concerns were raised about access. To be clear, the barrier at Stag Meadow operates on senior men’s matchdays (every other Saturday afternoon and occasional Tuesday evenings). The barrier does not restrict walking or cycling access to Windsor Great Park at any time. At all other times, the car park remains open to all. The barrier has been in operation since the beginning of August with no complaints received.
Our commitment
We continue to welcome fair and honest debate, and we remain committed to transparency. This consultation has shown very strong overall support while highlighting areas where we can provide reassurance. As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and open dialogue, we will be holding a follow-up meeting (date to be confirmed) for local residents ahead of submitting our full planning application. This session will provide an opportunity to run through some of the key specifics in more detail, in particular our proposed transport and parking plan, and to answer any remaining questions.
We thank everyone who has contributed their views and look forward to continuing this journey together.
