£820,000 for extra football pitches and improved pavilion in Headley
Local residents and visitors to Headley will soon be able to enjoy even more sports, with extra facilities, thanks to money drawn from local developments.
The project will see Headley Parish Council working in partnership with local community sports clubs to enable the growth in sports provision including junior and youth football by providing three new football pitches. This will help meet the needs of a growing community, enable greater engagement and increase inclusivity, within the local community.
The full project involves the redevelopment of the pavilion to provide additional facilities. The additional pitches are located on derelict farming and equestrian land.
Cllr Anthony Williams, Chairman of East Hampshire District Council and Chairman of Headley Parish Council, said: "The Parish Council is very grateful to have been successful in its S106 and CIL bids which are going towards improved community sports facilities.
"Not only is it good news for local residents, the playing fields and pavilion are used by residents from neighbouring parishes.
"This important funding ensures that the Headley community and beyond will have a fantastic leisure resource to enjoy for many years to come."
The total cost of the project is more than £883,000, with over £523,000 provided by East Hampshire District Council through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
As part of the planning process developers make financial contributions towards upgrading local infrastructure. This money is collected by EHDC and made available to communities that have seen development in their area.
The project was boosted by £300,000 from S106 contributions, further funding applications are currently being assessed to provide additional financial support.
S106 is an agreement between a developer and the local planning authority, showing the measures developers must take to reduce their impact on the community.
Cllr Andy Tree, East Hampshire District Council Deputy Leader & portfolio holder for Whitehill & Bordon area, said: “The allocation of s106 funding from local developments is carefully considered by the Council.
"I was very happy to support a grant of £300,000 from the Whitehill & Bordon developer contribution fund. This is a really important facility which is well used by communities across Headley and surrounding areas, including Whitehill, Bordon and Lindford.
"I am extremely happy that our Cabinet unanimously voted to support the CIL grant to ensure the scheme is fully funded and can go ahead.
"This is a great example of the EHDC's coalition cabinet working together for the benefit of our residents."