Moredon Sporting Hub moves closer to start date

A new 15-hectare multi-sport, multi-generational sporting hub in Moredon is moving closer to reality after funding was secured – and work could start in the next couple of months.

The new £6m facility, just off Akers Way, will create a modern and accessible facility for sport and physical activity that Swindon can be proud of.

The new sporting hub will offer sport and leisure for all ages and is aimed at those new to the sports available at the site, or those who may have stopped playing, but are keen to return to sport and physical activity as well as those wishing to continue their activity in a better environment.

The scheme will deliver a pavilion that will support a range of activities from early years and youth programmes with a café during the week through to light refreshments via a servery hatch on a Sunday morning. Enabling families to spectate and use café and welfare facilities is key to the sports hub being used by people of all ages.

A new all-weather floodlit pitch will also help young local players fulfil their potential within the game as well as providing an opportunity for more recreational football.

Alongside the artificial football pitch and pavilion, a new competition level cycling closed road circuit, a BMX pump track, learn to ride cycling area and cricket pitches will be included to ensure there is a wide range of activities for members of the community and visitors to enjoy. The local croquet club is also looking to increase the number of lawns available to its members.

The sporting hub is funded by a consortium of four funders comprising: the Government’s Football Foundation and Sport England on behalf of the Places to Ride Programme (which is a programme delivered in partnership between the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, Sport England and British Cycling), the local parish council (Central North Swindon Parish Council) and Swindon Borough Council.

The project is at preferred bidder stage and contractors for the various parts of the scheme will be announced soon.

Moredon Sporting Hub will include:

• Full size floodlight 3G pitch, fully enclosed with fencing, suitable for multi-team training and senior and junior matches.
• A 1km regional standard cycling closed road circuit with a number of internal loops and cross over points – allows for three separate groups to use the track at one time
• A learn-to-ride offer for younger riders.
• Car park improvements allowing for 125 standard spaces, 11 near accessible spaces, two mini bus spaces and 56 overflow spaces. A coach drop-off will also be included.
• Natural sports pitches including two football pitches and two cricket pitches.
• New pavilion with enhanced changing areas, café and reception area.

The hub will be delivered by Swindon Borough Council and operated by North Swindon Parish Council.