Sports Zone
The NDC programme is in the early development stage of a new Sports Zone in Fitton Hill (southern end of the NDC area). This development is based on gaining the approval from Oldham Council Senior Management Team for the transfer of the site to the NDC and the subsequent agreements with the Council for the staged development on the site.
The aim of any work will be to enhance the opportunities to undertake physical activity (link to physical activity project) in the Hathershaw and Fitton Hill area. The areas of work being considered in relation to the sports zone relate to the enhancement and drainage relating to the sports fields at the rear of the Continuing Professional Development site and the design and development of a flood lighting system. In addition, the consideration of a range of options relating the development of a sports facilities building is underway.
Approval from Council Senior Management Team will not be granted until the NDC can identify not only the potential land requirement but also that there is a need for the facility in terms of an underused market within the borough. The development of this facility must be a part of the overall borough wide sports and recreation facilities, although it will be owned by the NDC under the future forward programme.
The overall principle of the new build is for the creation of a fit for purpose facility for the use by sports and community groups within the NDC area. Provisional expected uses could include:
- badminton
- five-a-side football
- basketball
- netball
- aerobics
- trampoline
- volleyball
- Martial arts
- a number of external all weather sports pitches
- a number of grass pitches for football and rugby
The report seeking permission for the development is scheduled to be presented to the NDC Board in the summer of 2008 and will require both NDC and external funding. Consultation on the proposal will then take place with all interested parties, including potential user groups, resident neighbours and the wider community.