Construction of major sports park in Colchester complete
The multi-million pound sports park is due to open in Spring if Covid-19 restrictions allow
Construction work on the "state-of-the-art" Northern Gateway Sports Park, located off junction 28 of the A12, is now complete.
The 76-acre site boasts a floodlit cycle track, learn to ride facilities, two 4G sports pitches and seven grass rugby pitches.
A five-court sports hall can be found inside, as well as a fitness suite, exercise and dance studios, interactive velo studio, meeting rooms and a café.
Colchester Rugby Football Club will also call the clubhouse, which overlooks the outside pitches, it's home.
Meanwhile, Colchester and District Archery Club will operate out of a purpose built archery range and clubhouse to the south of the site.
Leader of Colchester Borough Council, Councillor Marj Cory, said: "The completion of this inspiring facility marks a huge milestone towards our vision to give all of our residents new and wide-ranging opportunities to play sport, be healthy and enjoy our outdoor spaces. Importantly for me, the Sports Park will be accessible for all, offering activities for all abilities and those with disabilities.
"My thanks to R G Carter for their expertise and commitment to deliver this project in what has been a challenging year. The result is an exceptional Sports Park that will enable people both locally and from across the wider region to get involved, get active and make the most of the remarkable facilities Colchester can offer. When things return to normal after Covid, this will be a facility Colchester can be proud of."
Colchester Borough Council funded the £28.8 million development which was managed by Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd, with construction carried out by R G Carter who have now handed over the development to the council.
The project has also been supported by funding from groups including British Cycling, Sport England, and from England and Wales Cricket Club.