An important step towards establishing Chelmsford as a sports venue of national importance was taken on Wednesday when work began on a major new indoor athletics training centre at Melbourne Park.

The centre, being built with Sport England lottery funding of £2.35m, will house a 60 metre sprint straight, a multi-use sports hall and fitness room, with facilities for long and high jump, pole vault and throwing events.

It is intended to serve specialist athletes and the local community.

The new facilities will add to the £1.5m eight-lane, all weather floodlit track, funded by Chelmsford Borough Council, and opened more than two years' ago.

"Cllr Ian Roberts, council executive member for arts and leisure, said, "This new athletics training centre has been planned for some years and with the support of the lottery fund has now become a reality. I am really pleased that work has started and look forward to seeing the completion next June."

Jon Lyons, sports and recreation manager with the borough council, said, "This will lead to a comprehensive sports programme for all ages and abilities, including disabled athletes, in the borough."

Facilities would include provision for netball, basketball, badminton, keep fit classes and carpet bowls, he said.

"It will be both a community facility and a specialist athletics facility not just for the borough, but for a wider catchment," he added.

Plans are on public display at Melbourne Park. Any individuals or groups who want to know more, or inquire about future hirings should ring 01245 262666.

Celebrate - work starts on the new stadium

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