A huge swathe of land could be used for the sport and leisure needs of residents of houses still being built in the Wichelstowe expansion of Swindon.

And Swindon Borough Council, which is part of the consortium of organisations along with building firms, behind the whole scheme would like to know what people think.

The land earmarked for the new facility straddles East Wichel Way just north of the M4 between the new development centre and East Wichel.

The proposed layout would put a pavilion, car park and floodlit all-weather pitch to the north of East Wichel Way and grass pitches and the play provision to the south.

The site must include all-weather facilities with floodlighting so it can be used in the summer and winter, a pavilion, a car park and play areas. The pavilion will include changing rooms and potentially a community space and cafe.

To the east of the main site will be grassland for walkers and a new site designed to create wildlife habitats.

Councillor Kevin Small, the council’s cabinet member for finance said: “We are creating a modern, vibrant community in Wichelstowe through the joint venture with Barratt Developments and this sports hub is another great example of the excellent facilities that are being provided to benefit local residents.

"This development is delivering on our mission to build a better and fairer Swindon.

“It is really important that we provide spaces like this that everyone can enjoy and we’d really love to hear what local people think of our initial proposals so we can take on board their views as we get to the detailed design stage.”

The borough council is working with Wroughton Parish Council, whose chairman Councillor John Hewer said: “Wroughton Parish Council is excited to be involved in this project. There are already some very well subscribed and successful sports clubs in our parish and this new facility can only be a positive benefit for the local community.

“We strongly encourage all residents in the parish to formally respond to this consultation, as we really want and need to hear your views.”

Funding for the facilities is to come from ‘Section 106’ contributions paid by the Wichelstowe developers to Swindon Borough Council for local infrastructure improvements and community facilities. Grant funding may also be sought to expand the range of facilities on offer at the site.

Feedback on the plans can be submitted at the council’s Let’s Talk Swindon website letstalkswindon.gov.uk until mid-January. until mid-January.

This follows the opening of the Moredon Sports Hub earlier this year.

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