Community sports facility revamps planned

Sports facilities could be significantly improved in Chilton

Skate parks, tennis courts and football pitches could be revamped as part of a regeneration of community sports hubs.

Chilton Town Council has submitted plans to Durham County Council requesting permission to transform the Miners Welfare Ground and Charlie Wayman Fields in the town, near Ferryhill.

The proposals would see existing facilities upgraded and added to, with new and improved clubhouses planned for the sites.

The plans, submitted by the town council on behalf of Chilton Miners Welfare Charity, are now out for public consultation.

Under the proposals, the Charlie Wayman Fields would have a new football clubhouse and changing facility that would incorporate a community hub, kitchen and showers.

The pavilion at the Miners Welfare Ground would also be refurbished to include improved changing facilities, storage space, a kitchen and meeting room.

Other changes would include:

• Parking improvements for both sites, including disabled spaces

• A third tennis court at the Miners Welfare Ground

• Permanent flood lighting and a new 5x5 3G football pitch at Charlie Wayman Fields

• Skate park relocated to a position adjacent to existing play areas

According to a design proposal submitted to the council, the plans would be an "enhancement to the existing facilities, providing additional and better quality sports and recreation facilities for all of the local community".