Cricket enthusiasts in Waverley West will soon have more opportunities to enjoy the sport with the construction of two new cricket pitches nearing completion in the Bridgwater and Waverley Heights neighbourhoods. The pitches are expected to open in spring 2025.
A youth pitch at Chancellor Park (1264 Markham Rd.) and an adult pitch at Bridgwater Lakes Park (200 Bridge Lake Dr.) are both being built with premium artificial turf, along with grading improvements. The construction, which is slated to be completed in October, is part of a collaborative effort between the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, the City of Winnipeg, and the South Winnipeg Community Centre.
“Sports bring people together and help strengthen our communities,” said Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “These new cricket pitches will create fun spaces in Waverly West, offering more opportunities for Winnipeggers to create meaningful memories for years to come.”
Lisa Naylor, Minister of Consumer Protection and Government Services, highlighted the inclusivity of cricket. “Cricket is a sport for all ages and skill levels, allowing for the novice and expert alike to take part,” she said. “Our government is pleased to pitch in and get the ball rolling on these exciting new projects in Waverley West. These new pitches will bring much vitality to our community.”
Janice Lukes, Councillor for Waverley West, celebrated the history of cricket in Manitoba. “The Bridgwater Lakes Park cricket field is regulation size and will be a spectacular playing field for all ages. The Chancellor Park field is designed as a youth field and will serve all the up-and-coming cricket stars!” Lukes noted her role in championing the installation and upgrades of three cricket fields in Waverley West and three new fields in La Barriere Park.
The South Winnipeg Community Centre also expressed pride in its role in the development of these new facilities. “These new cricket pitches are a testament to our dedication to fostering inclusivity and promoting physical activity among all age groups,” said Masroor Khan, President of the South Winnipeg Community Centre Board. “We are proud to support initiatives that bring people together and enhance the quality of life in Waverley West.”
The total cost for the two projects is $207,500, funded through multiple sources, including $87,000 from the federal Canada Community-Building Fund, $26,000 from the provincial Building Sustainable Communities Program, and $59,000 from the City of Winnipeg’s Parks and Recreation Enhancement Fund. The South Winnipeg Community Centre also contributed $35,500 towards the Chancellor Park cricket pitch.
According to the City of Winnipeg, funding for the Bridgwater Lakes Park pitch was approved as part of the COVID-19 Economic Response and Recovery Plan, which focuses on improving park infrastructure and recreational amenities in underserved areas of the city.