PLANS have officially been submitted to create a multi-million sportsplex which is set to become a regional centre of excellence.

Colchester Council plans to sell the club’s current home, in Mill Road, to help pay for the aspirational plans on Cuckoo Farm, just north of the A12.

In total, the plans include a state-of-the-art 2,425sqm sports centre, a 1,641sqm club house and 12 sports pitches, including two 3G pitches, seven turf pitches and three mini pitches.

There would also be a 1.6km cycle track, running spaces, an archery area and an indoor cricket pitch.

Gazette: colchester northern gateway sports centre

The future - how the state-of-the-art sport centre would look 

The facility would be open between 7am and 11pm everyday and would have space for 358 cars. It is hoped the project will be completed by the end of next year.

In documents due to go before Colchester Council’s ruling cabinet next week, it states: “The proposed sports hub will be located on the north side of the A12 at junction 28 in the council’s Northern Gateway growth area.

“It is intended to replace and to enhance the sports and recreation facilities at the Mill Road recreation ground and in so doing will create a regional centre particularly for indoor cricket, rugby and cycling, and provide opportunities for public health and physical activity benefits.”

Gazette: northern gateway sport

Inside - the centre would also house a café

The planning statement adds: “Following extensive work undertaken by the project team, and in consultation with stakeholders, a master plan for the sports hub as well as a viable business plan was presented to cabinet who then approved the project including an overall capital budget.”

In a separate transport impact report, the new site is described as “highly accessible” and “well connected by public transport”, citing the nearby park and ride.

The plans were submitted last month and are expected to be approved in the summer.

Last month the Gazette revealed Colchester Council had won £5.5 million in Government money.

READ MORE: £5.5m secured to move Colchester Rugby Club... to make way for 560 homes 

The cash will be used to fund the Northern Gateway sports complex, which means the 22-acre Mill Road grounds would make way for 560 homes and a care home.

Rugby club bosses have previously warned despite being tenants of the council, they are under no obligation to move.