City of Windsor Invests $1 Million for Phase 1 of Full-Size Cricket Pitch at Derwent Park

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The City of Windsor is excited to announce that work will soon be underway to construct its first City-owned full-size cricket pitch at Derwent Park. Following extensive community consultation and a $100,000 investment for design work in 2022, Mayor Drew Dilkens was joined by was joined by Shahzeb Akram and Eniyavan Subramanian from the Windsor Essex Cricket League to announce that the City is moving forward with a $1 million investment in the first phase of construction.

Phase 1 of this ambitious project will see the installation of a cricket pitch complete with fencing, player benches and irrigation. The full project will be completed in six phases and will include the construction of washroom buildings, dressing rooms, trails, picnic tables, a patio area and solar lighting. Upon completion, the project will invest over $7.5 million into Derwent Park, further establishing it as a premier destination for sports and outdoor activities. 

Located between Forest Glade Drive and the E.C. Row Expressway, Derwent Park spans 32 acres, offering ample space for the new cricket pitch and existing scenic trails. The City aims to complete the first phase of this project by the spring of 2025, with further phases to be completed as part of the future 2025 capital budget. Derwent Park currently features 650 metres of gravel and natural trails that wind through a picturesque woodlot along the eastern edge of city land. These trails will be enhanced and extended as part of the ongoing development, creating a vibrant and accessible recreational area for all residents.

  • Phase 1: Installation of cricket pitch, player benches and irrigation and drainage system 
  • Phase 2: Installation of path around cricket pitch and access to parking lot, wayfinding signage, solar lighting, benches 
  • Phase 3: Cricket field lighting, batting/practice cages, shade for player benches, cricket pitch lighting and wayfinding signage 
  • Phase 4: Washroom buildings (2) with dressing rooms, picnic tables, patio area, storage area 
  • Phase 5: Updated parking lot area 
  • Phase 6: Widening and upgrading of trails and solar lighting

"The construction of the City of Windsor’s first full-size cricket pitch is a testament to our dedication to Building Windsor’s Future by promoting healthy and active living for our residents. Through investing in growth, Derwent Park will become a hub for an increasing number of cricket enthusiasts and a beautiful green space for everyone to enjoy." – Mayor Drew Dilkens

“I’m excited for the future of Derwent Park and proud to be part of a council that is providing a growing number of outdoor spaces that residents in Ward 8 deserve. Soon, residents in East Windsor will be able to use the City’s first full-size cricket pitch and enjoy all the amenities we hope to bring to this park.” – Councillor Gary Kaschak, Ward 8

"Cricket in Windsor is expanding at a fast pace. Windsor Essex Cricket League (WECL) started in 2018 with just six clubs. In 2024, close to 30 clubs participate in the League. While we have interest from additional clubs, we have been unable to accommodate more players as a result of all cricket grounds operating at full capacity. This full-sized Cricket Ground in Derwent Park, will provide a much-needed boost to the sport in Windsor. On behalf of WECL, we would like to thank Mayor Dilkens, City Council and all the wonderful staff at the City of Windsor. We are looking forward eagerly to the operation of this new facility." – Eniyavan Subramanian- Treasurer/Director WECL 

Photo, left to right: Muhammad Anwar Shahid, Mayor Drew Dilkens, Councillor Gary Kaschak, Shahzeb Akram and Eniyavan Subramanian

Mayor Dilkens and guests at the Derwent Park sign

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