Breaking News: St Ives Rugby Club’s Future Secured as Council Approves Clubhouse & Pitch Relocation for 120 Home Development; Construction Set for Summer’s End, Pitch Playable by Autumn 2026. Backed by £4.9m in funding from the government’s Town Deal programme and Cornwall Council, the scheme will relocate and modernize the clubhouse and training facilities, meeting Sport England’s standards, while freeing up land for much-needed affordable homes and extra care housing. “This development allows us to grow further on the pitch whilst continuing to support the local community off it for another 100 years” said Ian Sanders from St Ives RFC.
St Ives Rugby Clubhouse Relocation: A Boon for Sports and Housing
The Big Move: St Ives Rugby Club’s New Home
Get ready, rugby fans! Cornwall Council has just announced a significant milestone in the relocation of St Ives Rugby Club’s clubhouse and training pitch. This exciting development will pave the way for 120 new homes in the charming town of St Ives.
Key Players and Timeline
Cornwall Council has confirmed local contractors Fox Construction and WR Sandow for the first phase of the scheme. Construction is set to kick off towards the end of summer 2023, with a potential playable pitch in autumn 2026.
But what does this mean for the club? The relocation will see the current clubhouse replaced with a new modern facility, and existing training pitches moved north for a bigger, better sports pitch with improved access and sightlines.
Funding and Planning Permission
This ambitious project has secured a whopping £2.9m from the government’s Town Deal programme and a further £2m match-funding from Cornwall Council. With outline planning permission for up to 50 dwellings and up to 70 extra care units already granted, the council is confident in the scheme’s success.
“I have supported both parts of this scheme, the rugby club development and proposed housing. Breaking ground will make it feel real,” said Andrew Mitchell, a Cornwall Council member. St Ives RFC’s Ian Sanders echoed these sentiments, “This development allows us to grow further on the pitch whilst continuing to support the local community off it for another 100 years.
Did You Know?
* The new sports facilities will meet the requirements and standards of Sport England.
** This scheme is led by Cornwall Council in partnership with St Ives RFC and the Rugby Football Union.
*** The relocation will also support the town’s housing needs, with affordable homes and extra care housing on the cards.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: How will this impact the local community?
A: Apart from housing, the new sports facilities will also benefit the local community by providing better access and improved amenities.
Q: What will happen to the existing clubhouse and training pitches?
A: They will make way for the new homes, contributing to the town’s housing stock.
Pro Tips for Rugby Fans
🏉 Keep your eyes peeled for the groundbreaking ceremony in late summer 2023, a significant milestone in St Ives RFC’s history.
🏡 Stay updated on the progress of the new homes, with up to 50 dwellings and 70 extra care units on the way.
🏉 Cheer on St Ives RFC as they look to grow their club with these exciting developments.
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