Park Avenue Cricket Ground has always been a lifeline for Bradford’s working-class and South Asian communities. The outdoor nets were once free, open, and widely used- a safe, positive space for thousands of young people.

But after redevelopment and the addition of a dome, this vital community resource has been turned into a pay-to-use facility, breaking the promise that it would remain 100% free. Most local players can no longer afford access. The only real running cost is basic lighting - yet the community is being locked out.

This is more than a sporting issue. Cricket keeps young people off the streets and away from crime, drugs, and gangs. Taking this space away puts the community at risk.

Our Appeal:

1. Immediate removal of all charges for community use.

2. Free access for coaches who train and mentor local players.

3. A return to a community-first model with fair and transparent access.

4. A public explanation for the broken promise of free use.

Cricket is a lifeline. These are our nets. This is our ground.

It must be free again.