SPORTS CLUB’S £3M GOAL

Dec 24 2009 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

A SPORTS centre is one step closer to securing a multi-million-pound overhaul.

Helsby Community Sports Club has been granted planning permission by Cheshire West and Chester Council for a clubhouse to be built at the Mere’s Edge site at a cost of £3m.

The decision now means the club is closer to realising its vision for sport and recreation in Helsby, Frodsham and the surrounding communities.

Manchester United striker and patron of the Chester Road club, Michael Owen, said: “It is fantastic news and a major step nearer providing the people of Helsby and the surrounding areas with a first-class facility for the whole community.”

The plans include a clubhouse with an indoor sports hall and a multi utility games area as well as football pitches, tennis courts, bowling greens, a fishing pond and a 1km running loop.

The centre will also have a dedicated function room, meeting rooms and a parish clerk’s office.

Helsby homeowner Steve O’Connor, owner of the Widnes Vikings rugby club, donated £25,000 to the community club’s buy a brick appeal last year and is delighted with the news.

“I am extremely pleased for Helsby and the surrounding areas,” he said.

“It is fantastic news and will help to bring people of all ages together in the whole community through sport and leisure.”

In recent years, the site has fallen into disrepair and a complete facelift was needed.

Michelle Pickstock, club development officer, said: “This is great news, but it is the first step in a long process and we need to continue to work together as a team to see this exciting community project delivered as soon as possible.

“It’s only the first hurdle but we are upbeat. I didn’t think it was going to get planning permission so in that respect it’s fantastic news so we would like to thank everyone involved.”