Colchester Sports Hub
R G Carter constructed a new flagship sports development for the community of Colchester. The works comprised of a new leisure centre, rugby club clubhouse and numerous external sports pitch facilities, including natural grass pitches, a 4G surface and a floodlit cycle track. The building also houses a fully equipped fitness suite, an archery facility, exercise and dance studios, meeting rooms and a café.
Critical Requirements of the project:
- Preserving the openness of the site and key landscape features
- Providing green links to the adjacent countryside
- Integration with the other sports and leisure facilities in the Northern Gateway.
The development was situated on the Northern Gateway site to the east of an existing park and ride facility and was delivered collaboratively with all project stakeholders on behalf of Colchester Borough Council. The Sports Centre and Rugby Club are two separate buildings, both of steel frame construction with piled foundations. Both featured timber cladding facades which are sympathetic to the natural surroundings of the site.
Due to the significant civil and groundwork requirements, close collaboration between the main contractor and supply chain ensured a productive and swift conclusion of their works.
As a requirement of the wider development, there were several requirements for external sports facilities. Following early discussions with our appointed sports pitch specialist, the natural grass pitches were established early in the programme to receive the full benefits of the summer period. Good weather and a professional service by our reliable sub-contractor ensured that we delivered on quality.
“My thanks to R G Carter for their expertise and commitment to deliver this project in what has been a challenging year. The result is an exceptional Sports Park that will enable people both locally and from across the wider region to get involved, get active and make the most of the remarkable facilities Colchester can offer. When things return to normal after Covid, this will be a facility Colchester can be proud of.” Councillor Mark Cory – Colchester Borough Council
