Mid Suffolk District Council has announced a significant investment in local sports facilities with a new project costing £2.4 million, aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing in the community. The initiative, part of the Stowmarket Health, Education and Leisure Facilities (SHELF) scheme, includes the construction of a state-of-the-art six-lane running track at Chilton Fields, featuring a 100-metre sprint section and a separate 200-metre oval mini athletics track.
The SHELF scheme is designed to address health inequalities within the community and promote active lifestyles. It not only focuses on athletics but also includes a synthetic 3G pitch, an outdoor fitness trail, and new cricket nets developed in collaboration with Stowmarket Cricket Club. These facilities aim to provide diverse opportunities for physical activity for residents of all ages.
In addition to the immediate enhancements, the council is considering the construction of a shared sports pavilion to further support sports activities in the area. This multi-faceted approach reflects Mid Suffolk District Council's commitment to fostering a healthier community through improved sports and leisure options.
The project will also see the installation of floodlighting for a second rugby pitch, which is projected to cost more than £861,000. A substantial portion of this funding, around £497,000, may be sourced from developers. Cabinet members will deliberate next Tuesday on whether to accept a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) bid from these developers, which will provide crucial financial backing for the project.
Council Leader Andrew Mellen expressed optimism about the project's progress, stating, "Since the conception, this has been an ambitious project – but one I am pleased to see we are making great progress with." He emphasized that the development is part of a broader commitment to enhancing sports and wellbeing facilities in Stowmarket: "We have always been very clear about our commitment to sports and wellbeing facilities, and this is just one of the ways that we can reaffirm that commitment."
Mellen further highlighted the importance of funding in realizing these plans: "This funding will allow us to push ahead with our plans and deliver some truly great facilities for the people of Stowmarket and surrounding areas."
With these developments, Mid Suffolk District Council aims to create an inclusive and supportive environment for sports enthusiasts, contributing positively to the health and wellbeing of its residents.
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