Farewell to Table Tennis at White City Bus Station

Table tennis outside Westfield - in happier times

If you’ve passed by the bus station outside Westfield White City recently, you may have noticed something missing. The all-weather table tennis tables, once a quirky fixture of the concourse, have quietly disappeared.

For years, the tables were a rare bit of public fun in an otherwise functional transport hub.  Commuters, kids, and the odd shopper laden with bags could be spotted sticking around for a quick game.  They made the bus station feel less like a waiting room and more like a community space.

The tables are still around, they just aren't usable anymore.  For reasons that are unclear, they have been stacked up against the vacant site of the old Jamie's Italian restaurant site in Westfield, where they are currently not playable. 

Outside the old Jamie's Italian

Asked for comment, Westfield said "We currently have no information in regards with bringing back the outdoor table tennis tables".

It may only be a couple of ping pong tables, but their absence leaves the bus station greyer, duller, and a little less welcoming.

The Shepherd's Bush Blog offers a personal view on life in Shepherd's Bush. If you would like to contribute a story about our neighbourhood, email us at shepherdsbushblog(at)gmail.com.