Welcome to the
Yardley Community Protection Society
We are ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members. Join us in our mission to create a secure environment for all residents through awareness, education, and collaboration. Together, we can make a positive impact in Yardley!
Please press play to watch our journey.
Yardley Community Protection Society
Protecting Yardley, Enriching Lives
Yardley Community Protection Society Background
We are a registered Community Benefit Society (Reg.8922) created to protect and enrich the lives of people in Yardley. Our mission is to bring the beloved Barrows Lane Playing Fields back into community ownership and transform them into a thriving hub of sport, nature and togetherness.
Barrows Lane is under threat of being lost to housing development. We believe the land should stay in the hands of the people, not private developers. With your support, we can restore the site as a muilti-sport and wellbeing centre for all ages, backed by strong community support, political leaders and local partners.
Join us. Stand with us. Help save Barrows Lane Fields.
About YCPS
Who We Are
We are made up of residents, sporting groups, business leaders, local councillors and MP's, all working together to protect one of Yardley's most valuable assets Barrows Lane Playing Fields.
As a community Benefit Society we are governed by a Chair, Secretary, Treasurer and 12 Board Members. With regular involvement from over 50 local residents, the local MP and elected councillors.
Chair
Fay Goodman
Is an award winning businesswoman and community advocate, passionate about safety, wellbeing and preserving our shared spaces. Her leadership has united the community behind this vital cause.
The Cause
Why Barrows Lane Matters
Barrows Lane Playing Fields are currently under threat. The land's current owners Central England Cooperative plan to sell most of it for housing development. However, we strongly believe this sale can and should be contested.
Originally owned by the now defunct Co-operative Municipal bank, this land was gifted for community use not private gain.
We are fighting to:
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Stop the sale of Barrows Lane to developers
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Reclaim the land for community use
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Establish a safe, sustainable, inclusive space for sport, wellbeing and nature
​With wide-reaching community support, professional partners, and a plan backed by local leaders, this campaign is gathering momentum.
But we need your voice too!
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Media
Our Vision
1
The Vision for the Future
We envision Barrows Lane as a Centre of Excellence for Sport and Recreation, supporting health, nature, and inclusion for everyone in the Yardley community.
Building a regional hub that brings people together across generations and backgrounds.
2
The Queen Elizabeth II Centre of Excellence for Sport and Recreation
We have approached His Majesty King Charles III to request naming the site The Queen Elizabeth II Centre of Excellence for Sport and Recreation, to honour Her Late Majesty's role in leading the Commonwealth Games and bringing communities together through sport.
3
Our Goals
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Multi-sport facility, natural play areas and community led activity spaces.
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​One natural grass pitch for children and youth to avoid over reliance on astroturf.
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Exploration of innovative child safe alternatives for all weather use.
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Collaboration with local groups to support health, safety and wellbeing for adults and children.
Together, we will build a living legacy rooted in community, connection and opportunity
Our
Aims
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Regain community ownership of Barrows Lane Playing Fields.
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Establish a multi-sport hub with football, cricket, bowling and more.
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Provide a supportive space where children, young people, adults and older residents can enjoy sports and strengthen their resilience and wellbeing.
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Create a welcoming social space with onsite cafe for all residents.
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Preserve wildlife habitats, including slow worms, bats and hedgehogs.
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Generate sustainable income to fund grassroots initiatives.
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Become a centre visited by thousands each week, improving local wellbeing and opportunity.
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Honour the lands heritage, including a new plaque to thank The Barrows Family and Co-operative Bank.
Latest Updates
Mission
Yardley Community Protection Society (YCPS) is dedicated to transforming the Barrows Lane Playing Fields into a thriving hub for sports, nature, and community activities. Our mission is to preserve this land, and create a multi-sport and wellbeing center accessible to all ages in Yardley.
Get Involved
This is your community and this should be your land
There are many ways to help save Barrows Lane and make our shared vision a reality:
50 British pounds
From 20 British pounds
Share Our Story on Social Media
News & Updates
Keep up to date with the latest developments in our campaign to save Barrows Lane
• Community meeting summaries
• Public consultation responses
• Media coverage
• Campaign milestones
• Statements from supporting councillors, MPs, and partners
• Upcoming events and volunteer opportunities
📩 Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media to stay in the loop
Support the Campaign
The fight for Barrows Lane is more than a local issue it is a stand for community power, green spaces, and a better future
We are proud to have the support of:
Jess Phillips MP Labour
Andy Street Former
West Midlands Mayor Conservative
Richard Parker
West Midlands Mayor Labour
Deborah Harries Councillor Liberal Democrat
This rare cross-party unity reflects the overwhelming belief that Barrows Lane must be protected — for today and for generations to come.
Make a Donation
Every contribution goes toward reclaiming and revitalising the site.
