£28.8 million sports park opens in Colchester
The Northern Gateway Sports Park has opened its doors to the public
Last updated 26th Apr 2021
Colchester's brand new Northern Gateway Sports Park has opened today (26 April).
The £28.8 million facility, located off junction 28 of the A12, features an accessible-for-all one-mile floodlit cycle track, numerous sports pitches, a multi-use sports centre, fitness suite, exercise studios, and more.
The opening was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by British Cycling, Essex County Cricket, Colchester Rugby Football Club, Colchester & District Archery Club, Colchester Borough Council, the Mayor of Colchester, Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd and Paddy & Scott's Cafe.
Due to Covid-19 guidelines, the 76 acre site is open at a reduced capacity, with residents and visitors able to begin a membership and explore the facility.
Lauren Forrow, Cycling Delivery Manager in the East at British Cycling, hopes it's encourage people to take up cycling:
"The great thing about cycling is we know it tackles so many agendas. You've got climate, environment, you can use bikes for active travel, sport, leisure, health, the possibilities are endless.
"We know one of the main barriers for getting people into cycling is the safety aspect and them feeling safe and confident. That's really something the Northern Gateway is going to address, giving people that safe place to learn and build confidence."
Councillor Theresa Higgins, Portfolio Holder for Commercial Services, said:
"I am very happy to be opening this fantastic sports facility today. I have enjoyed the cycle track myself and look forward to professionals, families and people of all abilities racing along the circuit.
"There are so many sports available here to have a go at; the gym is state of the art; the sports hall is fantastic; and the velo studio is truly challenging for anyone wishing to take on the ultimate cycle experience.
"With open green spaces and craft coffee from Paddy & Scott’s I know the Sports Park will become a popular social hub for Colchester."