squash+
London
Squash Plus has a vision to raise the profile of the sport and make squash
accessible to more people, specifically to children. Visibility is critical to
success. Around the world there is the perception that many facilities are
uninspiring places, often poorly maintained, and tucked away out of sight. This
is changing slowly but until kids can see courts in public spaces - and play on
them without expensive memberships - the sport cannot develop. During the
pandemic, the sport’s reputation suffered further and what was recently thought
of as one of the world’s healthiest sports became considered a high-risk
activity simply because it is played indoors and in very enclosed spaces. Our
challenge is to transform the image of squash courts and make them attractive in
a post-pandemic era. We’re working on two complementary concepts: first, a
lower-cost court with a steel and polycarbonate canopy which provides enough
protection to ensure use in a variety of climates and weather conditions. We are
continually refining the specification trialling numerous materials at our R&D
court in Spain. Second, we have engaged HETA architects in London who are
designing a series of elegant hi-tech pavilion structures for sites that demand
a high level of architecture. For some years temporary glass courts have been
put up for elite tournaments in landmark venues such as in front of the Pyramids
of Giza or in Embarcadero Plaza, San Francisco. The time has now come for
permanent courts to be built outside which will give the sport the exposure it
really needs whilst delivering increased health benefits to players.
