BBC MODEL RAILWAY CLUB MOTSPUR PARK

Was passing through Motspur Park the other day, and couldn't believe the sorry state of the old BBC Sports Club (from what you could see through the locked gates).

Now my interest in this site goes back as long as I can remember, as a child I was taken here with my father on many occasions which would include the annual BBC Summer events, and the excellent bonfire and fireworks party held early November. 

Additionally we had access on summer weekends to run the BBC Model Railway club layouts and also build and run the 5" gauge live steam which was originally on temporary track running parallel to the Main Line railway on the far side of the sports ground. 

The pictures below show the extensive grounds that the BBC Club had especially when you compare to the Middlesex sports ground on the opposite side of the road which is now home to Fulham F.C. as their training grounds. 

The poor state of the BBC Sports ground is clear to see from above. 

The old 5 inch live steam used to run parallel to the railway line opposite to the location of the gas towers, until it's relocation behind tennis courts.

Later on this moved to a shed near the entrance and car park and along with other railway club members a brand new line was created .

The above picture gives a more close up view of the main Club House and car park with Tennis courts running out parallel to the gardens. Between the tennis courts and the housing runs the 5" Gauge Live Steam railway, which I helped build (well I stood and watched the adults anyway). 

You can clearly make out the loop at the end which allowed a reasonable return run for visitors on open days, the trains running from a Station Area in the car park and the model railways were in a purpose built shed. I can't recall when our last visit was before the BBC Club was closed nor is there any information about what became of the layouts and stock.

All of this site is in serious need of maintenance, I understand from local reports that the Club House was damaged by fire.

I wish I could gain access in to just see what is left (if anything) of the site, if anyone has the ear of the owners / site manager let us know.

It would be wonderful to see this site used rather than left to rot, housing is required, and remodel the playing fields into a country park sort of effect ... or the obvious solution is to build a school given the apparent lack of school space and sports options for youngsters in the Greater London region. 

Rebuilding the railway would a beautiful "feature" too. ;O)