Soham Rec to undergo £230,000 revamp
SOHAM recreation ground is set to undergo a major revamp after funding was set aside to provide new facilities for youngsters.
The project will see the site get a new modernised play area and a skate park for older youths.
The 2nd Soham Guides and Scouts will get a new headquarters on the recreation ground after the group was awarded a 160,000 grant from East Cambridgeshire Council towards its 325,000 scheme to replace its current wartime buildings.
At a town council meeting on Monday, chairman Cllr Chris Palmer told members that the district council had agreed that funding was available for the play area and skate park.
He said it was hoped the new facilities would be in the same area of the recreation ground, which was likely to be fenced off.
Cllr Palmer said they were going to contact some companies to look at possible designs.
"We would like to get it done by the summer holidays," he said.
Youngsters have been contacted for their views on what the park should be like.
District councillor James Palmer, of Soham north ward, said the total sum of the funding, obtained from developers for community schemes, was in the region of 230,000, including the Scout hut grant.
He said the town had not had a skate park since the old one, which was made of wood, was vandalised a few years ago.
"Youngsters are desperate for a skate park in Soham," he said. "At the moment, children are being taken by parents to use facilities elsewhere, particularly in Burwell.
"I think it is quite exciting. I am delighted there is money available for the people of Soham and I cannot wait to see the new skate park in action."
John Hill, chief executive at East Cambridgeshire Council, said: "We have identified money within the Section 106 funds which could be used to contribute for the skate park and the play area.
"We now look forward to receiving an application from the town council for the money so we get on with ensuring Soham has a range of activities for its young people to do."
Plans are also in the pipeline to give the Walter Gidney Pavilion a makeover which could see the historic home of Soham Town Council get a second floor and bar.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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