Development partner sought to develop a multisport hub

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A management partner to develop existing sports facilities at Norman Park is being sought as proposals to improve facilities are explored.

The news follows approval of proposals to develop a multisport hub in Norman Park, Bromley at a meeting of the Renewal and Recreation Policy Development Scrutiny (PDS) Committee. The scheme will allow for an upgrade of the existing site and the development of new sports facilities to provide improved amenities for the local community.

The aim of the scheme is to upgrade existing facilities and develop new sports facilities within Norman Park.  It is envisaged that the existing four pavilions that currently support the park's grass playing pitches, the pavilion within the athletics track and the unused gatekeeper's lodge would be removed.  These buildings would be replaced with a new dual-aspect pavilion, providing new and modern changing facilities in one place to improve the openness and the aesthetics of the park.  Visitor facilities would also be improved with new café and improved spectator facilities.

"We will do all we can to facilitate the improvement of facilities at the park.  Bromley has a proud sporting history and this is a fantastic opportunity to improve facilities and create a hub for the athletes of tomorrow.  It is vital that athletes and their clubs will continue to be able to use the track.  We recognise that pricing is a sensitive issue and use of the track must be kept within the financial reach of all existing and future users.  Offers received will be discussed with existing users of the athletics track and the park" said Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal and Recreation.

To implement the project, the council is seeking to appoint a management partner to fund, design, construct, maintain and operate the new facilities. The plans, subject to planning permission, would enhance the existing amenities and develop new facilities to improve what the park has to offer.  The partner would be required to implement plans to increase participation in sport and physical activity across the borough.  The partner would also ensure that the park and its facilities are developed for use by clubs, community and voluntary groups, schools, colleges and local businesses. 

The council will develop a service agreement with any new management partner to ensure that the operation of the track and grass pitches within the park offers affordable and high quality facilities for the use of local clubs and residents. 

Norman Park is located in Bromley, in the centre of the borough.  It currently houses an eight lane athletics track and two football pitches.  The planned developments support the aims and objectives of Building a Better Bromley to enhance recreation and leisure facilities for residents.  It will supplement leisure facilities in the heart of Bromley town centre which includes the £5 million improvement scheme to the Bromley Pavilion to provide better facilities and a new ten pin bowling alley.

ENDS

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