Plan to turn 'run-down' pavilion into community hub

Investment is being sought to transform the pavilion at Blaby Road Park in South Wigston

A plan has been unveiled to transform a "run-down" pavilion into a community hub.

The Richard Moore Sports CIC (community interest company) has taken on a 25-year lease to maintain and develop the sports pitches, bowls green, and pavilion at Blaby Road Park in South Wigston.

Scott Moore, managing director of the company, said the pavilion had become "run down after years of neglect" and the pitches at the site were also at a "pretty poor standard".

Mr Moore said that ideally investment would allow the company to double the size of the pavilion and add another floor subject to planning permission.

Planned improvements also include upgrades to the changing facilities, new accessible toilets and renovated community spaces designed for wider local use.

He said: "The building is about 40 years old nearly, there are cracks in the walls, very old ceiling tiles that are getting mouldy and dirty.

"The changing rooms aren't fit for purpose, we only have one female toilet, some of the showers aren't in use."

The company said it was hoping to work with the Football Foundation and Bowls England to secure investment for the facilities.

'Break down barriers'

Mr Moore said the plan was to open the pavilion for 12 to 14 hours a day from 2026, which will be a base for South Wigston Bowls Club, Leicester United and other sports teams.

He said the group expected to spend £10,000 on renovating the bowls green.

Mr Moore said the not-for-profit group aims to reduce social exclusion through sport, improve community integration and break down barriers to physical activity by offering accessible sport. It also wants to base youth clubs at the facility.

He said the pavilion will also be a base for the company's alternative provision school and host a programme to help adults with learning difficulties find employment.

Councillor Samia Haq, leader of Oadby & Wigston Borough Council, said: "The investment that this partnership will bring to the park over time will provide a real opportunity for young people and those with additional needs in South Wigston especially, not only by increasing the number of sports clubs and activities which are available to them but by providing structured and safe environments for them to develop new skills and confidence.

"Everyone should have the opportunity to get involved in sports and physical activity regardless of their background, and I'm proud that we are able to launch this new chapter for Blaby Road Park and really harness its potential for bringing our community together."