The new sports complex for Wealden has reached a milestone with the completion of two 3G football pitches.
Although it is being built near Hellingly, the Wealden Community Sports Hub, will be available for all residents of the Wealden district.
It is being built on a site owned by Wealden District Council and has been developed to give residents in the district more sports facilities, thanks to a grant of £3.5million from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.
The community sports hub will be operated on a not-for-profit basis by Leisure United once it is completed.
The two new 3G floodlit football pitches have been completed to FIFA quality. One pitch is 106 x 70m with spectator standing area, the other is 97 x 61m. Both pitches are suitable for 11 aside and smaller sided games.
The main structure of the padel court is now complete, with the final touches being planned for April. The perimeter footpath and soft landscaping is ongoing. The skatepark is planned for completion this month.
Cllr Kelvin Williams, lead councillor for Public Health and Asset Management, said: “The Wealden Sports Hub has made huge progress over the last few months, with the completion of our FIFA quality football pitches marking a major milestone for the project.
“These pitches will provide a high-standard, year-round facility for local clubs, matches and residents, helping to address a clear shortage of quality football provision in the area. Alongside this, the kitchen and café space and the skate park are nearing completion, and new car parking has been delivered.
“This development is about far more than sport. It’s about encouraging active lifestyles, promoting healthy lifestyles and wellbeing, and creating a space that is supporting the heart of our community.”
Mark Coulson, Leisure United Chief Executive Officer, said, “Leisure United is delighted to be operating the Wealden Community Sports Hub and is excited to see the completion of the two FIFA-quality 3G pitches. These facilities will provide high-quality, year-round opportunities for local clubs, groups and residents to take part in football and other activities.
We look forward to bringing the wider Hub to life and creating an inclusive, welcoming space that supports health, wellbeing and community participation across Wealden.”